Thursday, June 18, 2009

“Mis Primeros Pasos”
Fire Prevention & Life Safety Training
Dominican Republic

From May 19, through May 31, 2009, NAHF representative Antiliano Estrella of Providence Rhode Island Fire Department and member of IAFF Local 799, trained an estimated 200 Fire Personnel in the “Mis Primeros Pasos” fire prevention program. This program is the NFPA’s “Learn Not to Burn” program in Spanish. The training took place in four municipalities in the Dominican Republic; San Pedro de Macori, El Seibo, Barahona, and San Francisco de Macori. San Pedro de Macori was the first NAHF International Chapter established in 2007 in Dallas, TX.

Most Fire Departments in the Dominican Republic have a Junior Firefighter program that builds discipline and prepares youth for a career in the Fire Service. Firefighters representing 13 Fire Departments and the Red Cross took advantage of this training. “The training was very successful and has inspired participants to train others in the program” stated Antiliano Estrella, “The training was a huge success and helps the NAHF reach its goals of keeping or communities healthy and safe.”
The NAHF would like to thank President of the NAHF Domincan Chapter Carlos Tomas Ramos, General Carlo Varelo, General Luis Esmurdoc, Chief Javier Garcia, Chief Jesus Corpal Arias,  Chief Jose Antonio Perez Gomez, and Battalion Chief Federico Matos for planning and coordinating such successful training programs throughout the country of the Dominican Republic.
The NAHF would also like to recognize F/F Antiliano Estrella (center white cap) for his dedication, sacrifice, and leadership. It is because of members like him the NAHF has a bright future.