The Paris Fire Department spent the past week participating in its annual in-service training, dedicating several days to sharpening skills, reviewing procedures, and strengthening teamwork.
While residents most often see firefighters responding to emergencies, training like this happens behind the scenes to ensure crews remain ready for whatever situations they may face.
Live Fire Training
One of the most intensive portions of the week involved live fire training exercises. During these controlled burn scenarios, firefighters studied fire behavior and practiced techniques used during real emergency responses.
Crews trained on recognizing thermal layering, using thermal imaging cameras to locate heat sources, and maintaining situational awareness while operating inside active fire environments. These exercises allow firefighters to experience realistic conditions while practicing the coordination and communication required during an emergency.
Working in full gear and rotating through multiple scenarios, firefighters moved through each evolution together—advancing hose lines, navigating smoke-filled spaces, and supporting one another throughout the training.
Camaraderie in the Fire Service
Beyond the technical skills, the training also highlighted something equally important in the fire service: trust between firefighters.
Live fire training requires crews to rely on one another in high-pressure conditions. Throughout the day, experienced firefighters coached newer members, offered guidance between scenarios, and worked side by side as teams moved through each exercise.
Fire Chief Jamie Hinson spent the day alongside his firefighters in the training environment, leading by example. “It’s the element of the real and the unknown that makes this job so thrilling,” Hinson said.
Part of that challenge was simulated during one of the day’s exercises when some of the department’s newer firefighters navigated a three-story dark maze while wearing full turnout gear. Designed to mimic the low-visibility conditions often encountered inside burning structures, the maze required firefighters to move through tight spaces and obstacles in complete darkness while maintaining communication and awareness.
Exercises like these help strengthen not only individual skills, but also the teamwork firefighters depend on when responding to real emergencies.
Classroom and Safety Training
Several sessions throughout the week focused on classroom instruction covering medical response, community safety, and specialized procedures.
Firefighters completed a CPR training refresher, NARCAN administration training, and Child Abuse and Child Abuse Advocacy training. These courses help ensure firefighters are prepared to assist during medical emergencies and situations involving vulnerable members of the community.
The department also reviewed hazardous materials decontamination procedures, an important part of safely responding to incidents involving potentially dangerous substances.
Many of these sessions serve as refresher courses that help firefighters stay current with fire service standards while maintaining their certifications through the Tennessee State Firefighting Commission.
Preparing to Serve the Community
The annual in-service week gives the department an opportunity to train together, strengthen skills, and reinforce the teamwork that is essential when responding to emergencies.