Q course

[spostemsky21]

any department having a Q course coming up that is open to members from other departments?

[scotts48]

Call Newington, Im not there anymore but they ususally do it quite frequently. 860- 667-5900 is the main number. Ask for the training cheif's voicemail or email Vic from the towns website.

[nadeau526]

They just finished a course. however I believe they are starting up another course shortley. When I find out more info I will try and pass it along.

[Adze39]

The course is a waste of time. Get the CDL book from DMV, review the practical portion, practice the course, take the test.

[nadeau526]

Just a FYI Newington is having the course in march but as of right now it is only open to department members. If I hear anything else i'll let you know.

[osfd100]

S21 what part of the State are you in?

Some of our guys are going right to the CDL and not bothering with the Q class right now its about 50-50.

[Adze39]

I agree a CDL would be more beneficial to you in that you can use it outside of the fire service.

If you are not aware of the difference here's a quick rundown of the difference of the two:

Q: Same practical course as the CDL, no Written
CDL: Same practical course as the Q, plus a written test


Q: You can take it for free
CDL: There is a fee (not sure of the cost...anyone want to chime in?)


Q: You have to use a firetruck for the test, cannot use a Class B vehicle
CDL: Have to use a Class B truck, cannot use a firetruck.
(***I think this is stupid because the only difference is one has lights, sirens, and is classified as an emergency vehicle...the claim is that the fire apparatus is not a DOT regulated vehicle but the Class B is.)


Q: Usually your FD will let you use their apparatus (haven't heard of one not letting their guys use it yet)
CDL: Usually have to rent a Class B vehicle although some departments might have a vehicle you can use or the town might let you borrow a Public Works truck for free... you'd have to check.


Q; Only good for fire apparatus (when it was a "restriction" and not an "endorsement" I believe it used to be good for farm equipment too... anyone remember?)
CDL: Can use it for fire apparatus and driving any other vehicle not requiring a Class A license. It opens the door to many more opportunities.


Like I said, that was a quick rundown... did I miss anything or have any errors?

And like I said before, don't waste your time with the course. You don't need it.

[jfaz81]

I am in the process of getting my CDL as we speak. The first thing to do is go to DMV and get the proper forms. You need to get a physical and have the physician fill out the physical form and a medical card. After the physical you can go down and take the written test (I believe it's like 35 questions) and if you pass you pay $65 for your CDL permit which is good for sixty days. Now all you need for the written test is to study the book you get from the DMV. Once you have your permit, practice, practice, practice and take the pracitcal when you're ready. I too am skipping over the Q endorsement, it's a waste of time in my eyes.