Chauffeur training school is a 9 day program designed to prepare a firefighter for the next step of their career. During this period of time a chauffeur candidate will learn how to operate a vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of above 26,000 lbs, which would normally require a Commercial Driver's License.

Operating these vehicles requires knowledge of driver safety, air brake systems, local laws, apparatus maintenance, fire pump operations and Fire Department Regulations. Becoming qualified to use the fire apparatus, all its systems and components such as pumps and aerial ladders is necessary as there are specific warnings and cautions provided by their manufacturers. Positioning the apparatus at a fire or emergency, communicating and executing the chauffeurs duties according to firefighting procedures is a lot of material to cover in nine days.

Therefore, it is important that a chauffeur candidate be prepared and knowledgeable as required by AUC 254 appendix A and B prior to attendance. This includes 5 hours of driving and reviewing firefighting procedures. Company Chauffeurs are required to know how all members of their unit are likely to execute their positions under different fire situations. Some knowledge of operating pumps and Ariel devices are also required.

Becoming a Ladder Company Chauffeur or Engine Company Chauffeur can be very challenging; arriving at the BOT armed with the minimum required knowledge will ensure ample time to become proficient at their new skill.

Hands-On instruction has come a long way, especially with the assignment of the latest model Engine and Tower Ladder apparatus dedicated for chauffeur training. Highly motivated and experienced instructors provide realistic scenarios designed to exercise new skills and enable troubleshooting techniques. The curriculum is continuously adjusted in order stay current with new equipment and changing procedures. Comfortable lecture halls are provided utilizing state of the art sound and projection equipment for power point presentations and video. A professional Emergency Vehicle Operators Course (EVOC) course prepares new chauffeurs for real world street driving problems by permitting maneuvering practice close to objects without fear of damaging equipment. Accident avoidance and apparatus positioning scenarios such as; "Shotgun Alley" or "Squeeze Through" situations can be practiced on the NASCAR inspired driving simulator.

At this time, construction has begun on a climate controlled shelter which will improve pump operation instruction during inclement weather.

Upon completion of the program firefighters will need to continue exercising their talents by welcoming every opportunity to operate the equipment. This will help to maintain proficiency and build confidence. Company policy should include regularly rotating chauffeurs. Preventing long periods of time on the back step will protect qualified chauffeurs from becoming complacent. Going to a fire is inevitable and chauffeurs have to stay sharp in order to provide a successful outcome for whatever they may encounter.