Local High Schoolers Take Firefighter Training

For Harry S. Truman High School seniors Matthew Powers and Tommy Tryon, the learning experience this year involved live burns, learning hose lines, and getting schooled in search-and-rescue operations.

The two Bristol Township seniors recently completed their Firefighter I certifications, which were earned through a dual-enrollment partnership between the Bristol Township School District and Bucks County Community College.

The program allowed the students to earn free college credits while fulfilling their high school graduation requirements. It also gave them live-saving training to help the community.

The coursework culminated in a live burn training exercise at the Lower Bucks Public Safety Training Center in the township.

During the training, students were tasked with extinguishing active fires, setting up ladders, and executing search-and-rescue drills.

“It meant a lot to participate in the class and finish it,” Tryon said. “The course brought a group of people who had never worked together before, and we worked throughout the year to become a cohesive group, overcoming challenges along the way.”

Tryon has spent nearly four years volunteering at the Croydon Fire Company, where he serves alongside his father, who has been the company’s chief since 2003.

“My favorite part of volunteering is the camaraderie amongst everyone,” Tryon said. “Everyone will stop and help anyone in a moment’s notice.”

Tryon began his dual-enrollment journey as an 11th grader when he enrolled in Interpersonal Communication and CPR/First Aid before taking Emergency Services for his senior year.

Powers, who has also volunteered for four years at the Newportville Fire Company, focused his coursework on sharpening his first-responder skills. He completed Responding to Emergencies Parts 1 and 2, earning his EMT certification.

“The best part is probably helping people, but also the people I have the privilege to volunteer with,” Powers said.

Because the final training exercise was not his first live burn, Powers said he enjoyed guiding and supporting his classmates who were feeling the intense conditions for the first time.

The two students highly recommend the emergency services pathway to peers looking to explore the field.

The dual-enrollment program is open to all students, whether they plan to pursue a four-year college degree or not.

“Dual enrollment opens a door to greater opportunity and also helps you meet people who don’t attend your school,” Powers said.

Tryon called for more Truman students to consider the program.

“It helps you jumpstart your college experience,” he said. “Even if you are not going to college, you get an experience you wouldn’t otherwise get.”

After graduation next month, Tryon is scheduled to leave for U.S. Marine Corps boot camp.

According to the district, Tryon and Powers plan to pursue full-time careers in the fire service.

The dual-enrollment program comes as volunteer fire companies in the region and across the nation seek more members to respond to calls.