Throughout the year, the ZFD teaches different types of training to both the career and volunteer staff. There are many different aspects of being a firefighter, and vehicle extrication is just one part of the training that the department provides.

Not every automobile accident requires the “jaws of life” or cutting tools to gain access or entry into the vehicle. However, with all the different types of vehicles that on the roads these days, and to ensure thorough training, the ZFD trains all firefighters on the same features of vehicles so that a basic knowledge is learned in order to gain access to each vehicle involved.

Still, firefighters must become somewhat familiar with all types of vehicles that travel up and down the roads and throughout the area.

Certain areas of a vehicle require a certain amount of caution due to airbags, gas, shock absorbers, electrical wires, etc. Special attention with the new hybrid vehicles requires firefighters to know where to cut and pry on a vehicle so there are no injuries or deaths.

Also, the latest technology is always learned to help prevent injury and to keep the ZFD ahead of the curve.

Firefighters must remain proficient in their training to avoid injury to themselves and to citizens.