In some states the independant county's teach differant aspects of fire schooling. Here in Rhode Island it is taught by the Rhode Island Fire Academy. These programs are great although not frequent enough or with any variation. Every year same classes. With the state having the most money, I feel it should be the states obligation to provide a minimal training level to firefighters at ZERO cost to the department. (unless they have someone who doesn't show up) With smaller budgets, skyrocketing costs, and money becoming harder for firefighters to raise, its only fair that the state provide a level playing field for firefighters. All too often fire departments are missing the good training for lack of funding. How does your state/county/department handle outside training? Do you pay out of pocket? What are your suggestions to improve the system?
When is someone in a political office going to step up and take the challange of helping firefighters?