Van Buren began its most recent Firefighter I/II class early this August. Twenty-seven firefighters ranging in experience from 6 months to six years and representing four area township fire departments participated in the three month class. In addition to the state curriculum, the class was involved in three live fire evolutions and a state certified auto extrication class. Thanks to the hard work of the chiefs and instructors at Van Buren, the students received numerous opportunities for hands on experience. Three houses were donated to the department by the Monroe County Airport and Roger Taylor. They were put to good use sustaining multiple live fire evolutions, search and rescue operations and overhaul. The class spent three long Saturdays preparing and fighting the fires, as wells as, working to put apparatus provided back in service. Three nights were dedicated to auto extrication including a final night practical involving four scenarios ranging from simple auto extrication to extrication with vehicle fire. A total of fourteen cars were donated from County Auto Parts in Spencer, Indiana, Jake Viehman and the Fillippo family of Valparaiso, Indiana. Additional thanks go to Ellettsville, Bloomington Township, Bean Blossom Township and Eastern Fire Departments and their personnel for their participation as instructors, medical aid, apparatus and standby coverage during the fires. Special thanks to Roger Taylor and the Monroe County Airport for providing the structures and allowing the class to have such an opportunity. Click here to see live burn images and here for extrication.