Chili Fire JRs/RAMs program

04/05/2026

Today we did training a little different. In honor of Easter tomorrow we had an Easter egg hunt...but search style in our training maze and training tower with full gear on! The day ended with a free for all to find the coveted DISCO egg! Fun was had by all! Happy Easter!

04/01/2026

The RAMs have been busy working with the new Juniors on basic search concepts. Also, new to the program this year are the use of chainsaws and K12s for ventilation training!

03/06/2026

02/16/2026

Snow on the ground? Still throwing ladders. ☃️🪜

This week, our RAMs practiced rapid ladder deployment—a skill that can be the difference between life and death during a shift in fire patterns.

Training in the ice and snow isn't just about staying tough; it’s about mastering the "unpredictable" so we’re ready when the community needs us most. Great work, JRs/RAMs! 🚒💪

02/16/2026

On behalf of the Chili Rams/Juniors, we would like to publicly thank the family of John Dinardo, owner of Columbini's Pizza, for their generous donation of beverages to our program on Saturday, February 14th.

We are profoundly grateful for their support. At this time, we also wish to extend our thoughts and prayers to the DiNardo family. Columbini’s Pizza has been a beloved fixture in Chili, NY, and its legacy of service and community spirit will not be forgotten.

02/03/2026

This week, we conducted training exercises focused on emergency escape procedures. 🚒 For firefighters, proficiency in extricating themselves from life-threatening situations, such as exiting through windows or breaching walls, is crucial. Additionally, it's rewarding to unwind with some snow play after completing rigorous training. ❄️

01/30/2026

❄️ There's been so much snow! ❄️☃️

Shown here is a local student from Florence Brasser Elementary doing a fantastic job clearing snow around this hydrant so it can be quickly accessed by the fire department if needed.🚒

Thank you, Joey, for helping keep your neighbors safe! 👏
We think there’s definitely a spot for you in the Chili Fire Rams program in the future! Chili Fire Department

01/19/2026

When minutes matter, training is the only thing that stands between a Mayday and a miracle. ⏰🔥

This week, our crew put in the work on Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) drills. In a working structure fire, the RIT is the ultimate safety net—a specialized team standing by for the sole purpose of rescuing our own.
Whether it’s a structural collapse, disorientation, or equipment failure, if a firefighter calls for help, this team is ready to move. Today’s focus: packaging and removing an unconscious firefighter. It’s a grueling process that demands:
* Precision Communication: Every second counts when air is low.
* Seamless Coordination: Moving a fully geared-up firefighter requires a synchronized effort.
* Pure Strength & Grit: Getting them out safely and quickly is physically demanding.
We train until it’s muscle memory. We drill until we can stay cool under the highest pressure. We do it so that if the unthinkable happens, we’re ready to bring everyone home. 🤝🚒

01/13/2026

🚒 A Historic Night for Chili Fire! 🚒

Tonight, we officially turned the page to an exciting new chapter. We are thrilled to announce the kickoff of the Chili Fire JR/RAMs program and the induction of our very first two RAM members!

This program is more than just training; it’s about paving the way for the next generation of heroes. To the kiddos in our community who dream of wearing the gear and serving their neighbors: the path is officially open.

Congratulations to our first two inductees! We are incredibly proud of your commitment and can’t wait to see you grow.

01/12/2026

Putting it all together! 🚒🔥

Our Junior/RAM firefighters put their knowledge and quick thinking to the test this week with a high-intensity combined IFA drill.

The Mission: Members were split into Truck and Engine companies, requiring seamless teamwork and communication to complete a complex tactical scenario.

Skills in Action:

🚪 Door Breaching

💦 Hose Lays & Hydrant Hits

🔍 Search & Rescue

🪜 Ladder Throwing

These drills are designed to be challenging, but our crew aced the test with enthusiasm and precision. Great job to the next generation of first responders! 💪

12/21/2025

Training for Every Scenario 🚒

Firefighting isn’t just about one type of call — it’s about being ready for every possibility. Our junior members took part in scenario-based training designed to challenge their thinking, teamwork, and decision-making skills in realistic situations.

From problem-solving under pressure to practicing safe, effective techniques, these drills help build confidence and prepare firefighters for the unexpected. Training like this ensures that when the call comes in, muscle memory and teamwork take over.

Because every scenario is different — and every one matters!

12/10/2025

**🚒 Explorer RIT Training 🚒**

Our Explorers took to the dreaded maze for some hands-on Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) training!

A *maze* is a controlled environment built to simulate real-world fireground challenges—tight spaces, low visibility, obstacles, and disorientation. It teaches firefighters to trust their training, rely on their senses, and work together when conditions get tough.

During this drill, the Explorers navigated the maze to locate and remove a “downed firefighter.” With limited visibility and only their sense of touch and sound to guide them, they practiced communication, teamwork, and problem-solving under pressure.

Proud of their hard work and dedication! 👏🔥