Firefighters complete their training

PALMER, Mass. (WWLP) - Several Western Massachusetts communities will be that much safer because 31 local men and women have completed their fire service training.

Hundreds of well-wishers looked on as 29 men and two women picked up their certificates of completion during graduation ceremonies at Palmer High School.

The 31 graduates of the "Call/Volunteer Firefighter Training" program represent 16 fire departments from Bondsville to Williamsburg.

For some, like Sherry Gustafson of Bondsville, it's become a family tradition. "It all started with my dad who was a fire fighter. And then My Uncle. And then my Brother joined years ago, and now he's the chief. It's something I always wanted to do."

Sherry's Father, Jim Gustafson, a retired Bondsville firefighter said he couldn't be more proud of his daughter, and credits the Call/Volunteer Program with making the profession safer. "The youngsters have a chance to get trained to better prepare them for what they're gonna meet. Reduces the injuries that firefighters sustain. It's such a great thing."

State Fire Marshall Stephen Coan addressed the graduates, urging them to work to prevent fires, not just put them out.