In an effort to sharpen the skills of the volunteer firefighters of the Clinton Heights Fire Department, Lieutenant Mike Ciampo of 45 Truck New York City Fire Department located in the Bronx and Firefighter Mike Leo of Squad 41, Bronx were on hand the weekend of March 30-31st to offer class and hands-on experience in truck company operations.  Firefighters from Rensselaer, Defreestville, Halfmoon and Wynantskill were invited to join the 35 volunteers from Clinton Heights for this exercise.

Lieutenant Ciampo offered "tips, tricks and techniques" in window ladder entry as well as rotation and rescue.  There was extensive training in forcible entry as a firefighter is faced with inward/outward opening doors.  Taught and reviewed as well was roof ventilation with an assortment of saws and tools available to truck company personnel.  Actual buildings recently donated to the fire department made the experience that much more realistic.  Cutting drills were also offered.

Firefighter Leo addressed the techniques of quick interior searches by ladder entry, taking glass, taking control of a room and conducting the primary search.

In all cases both trainers emphasized the importance of communication, team work and accountability. Lieutenant Ciampo has been on the job for 27 years, having served with Rescue 3 in Washington, D. C. as well as Truck 44 NYFD before being assigned to 45 Truck.  Firefighter Leo has been a volunteer firefighter with the Islip fire department for 20 years and for 10 years with FDNY.  He is also active with FEMA in the City of New York.