Every September in New Jersey a mass migration occurs where firefighters from more than 530 companies that are from all over the state converge on the Wildwoods. The reason for this phenomenon can be summed up in one word: CONVENTION.
The New Jersey State Firemen's Association's annual convention on paper serves as a meeting so representatives from local firemen's relief associations can be informed about statewide topics dealing with the association and firefighting, and to elect the association's officers over two days.
Though during the 142 years the convention has been held, a plethora of other events and activities have sprung up. From a field of tents with vendors to a couple parking lots full of new fire trucks being shown by the various manufacturers, and also training lectures and drills.
With basically everyone from the New Jersey volunteer fire service in Wildwood, and numerous vendors and instructors in attendance it would be a waste if you didn't use those resources to your advantage and instead just hung out with your company the entire time. Even if that is really fun.
The learning opportunities include a lecture that is hosted every year at the Wildwood Convention Center. This year's past lecture was about strategic ladder company operations and was presented by two career fire officers. This lecture usually happens Wednesday night.
In addition, there are hands on practical drills run by certified instructors in the parking lots outside the convention center. These drills allow you to work on multiple skills areas in a couple days whereas normally you would need to go to an academy fire ground. Part of the reason these training companies are there is to promote their businesses; so if you see or do a drill you like or think would be useful for your company remember you can hire them to come to you next time. By the way, also remember to bring your gear to convention if you want to partake.
The advantage to having parking lots full of new fire trucks from multiple manufacturers is that it allows you to see new features and layouts across the spectrum. Like how do different companies organize and store their irons and saws, or how do they have their hydrant or high-rise packs set up. This can very useful for departments in the early stages of designing a new truck. For example, you can check out cab interior pack seat design, and how ground ladders and hard suction are stored on these new trucks.
Another aspect to convention is networking with your fellow volunteers. They say companies that train together work better together so go say hi to your mutual aid companies and maybe hammer out some combined training ideas.
Also, don't forget to have a good time, but just don't get arrested.
See you at the big one.
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