Four Effingham Firefighters Complete Illinois Fire Service Institute Fire Academy

The Effingham Fire Department would like to congratulate Wyatt Newburn, Caden Walls, Trenton Scoggins, and Hayden Duckwitz on successfully completing the Illinois Fire Service Institute (IFSI) Fire Academy in Swansea, Illinois.

Through this intensive, nationally certified program, these members have completed the requirements for Basic Firefighter (Firefighter I) and Advanced Firefighter (Firefighter II) and have also earned Fire Service Vehicle Operator (FSVO). They have just one more weekend remaining to complete their Hazardous Materials training, after which they will hold HazMat Awareness and HazMat Operations certifications as well.

This hands-on academy focuses on real-world fireground operations, critical thinking, and safety, preparing firefighters to operate confidently and effectively in emergency situations. Upon completion of all program components, members earn Pro Board and IFSAC certifications, with eligibility for OSFM certification in Illinois.

And they aren’t stopping there. Next month, all four will begin their EMT education through Lakeland College, continuing their commitment to professional growth and expanding the level of service we provide to the Effingham community.

We are incredibly proud of the hard work, dedication, and sacrifices these four have made. Please join us in congratulating them and thanking them for their continued commitment to the fire service and to serving our community.