On September 30, Senator Jeremy Cooney (D-Rochester) announced $200,000 in state funding he secured for the Gates Fire District to construct a new facility to conduct routine training as well as Candidate Physical Ability Tests (CPAT), a required test that measures an individual’s ability to handle the physical demands of being a firefighter.
“Our firefighters put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe, it’s only right that we do all we can to make sure they have the resources they need to succeed,” said Senator Cooney. “I’m proud to deliver this funding for Gates Fire District to construct a new state-of-the-art facility and pave the way for them to become a regional leader in training and firefighter safety.”
Tim Goole, Fire Chief of the Gates Fire District, said, “The funding provided by Senator Cooney will save time, money, and effort in conducting the Candidate Physical Ability Tests and training for our Department along with other Monroe County Fire Departments. This facility will be a great training resource for the fire service locally and regionally.”
Brandon Statt, President of Gates Professional Firefighters & Dispatchers Local 3792 said, “As the President of the Gates Professional Firefighters and Dispatchers, I am pleased to see our Fire District’s continued commitment to supporting the physical fitness of our firefighters and officers. Physical fitness plays a crucial role in our careers, enabling us to provide the highest level of service to the community and ensuring long, healthy lives both during and after our time in service.”
Gates Fire District explained that they currently have to send trainees to the NYS Fire Academy located in Montour Falls to conduct this portion of the test. With this facility located in Gates, the Fire District will be able to save on training and travel costs. The Gates facility can also be used as a regional site for use by other local fire departments and can be reconfigured to allow for routine training outside of the CPAT.
This funding was secured by Senator Cooney in the state budget process in March of this year and will be administered through the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY).
The CPAT is a required test that consists of eight events that must be performed within 10 minutes and 20 seconds. This includes a stair climb, hose drag, equipment carry, ladder raise and extension, forcible entry, search, rescue, and ceiling breach and pull.
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