Palestine Firefighters, PPD Officers Teach Safety, Duties

By Teresa Holloway

Messenger Special Reporter

PALESTINE –  Public safety officers proved their jobs aren’t just smoke, ladders and bright lights last week when the Palestine Rotary Club, Palestine City Firefighters and city police officers hosted hordes of active youngsters for safety classes during the annual “Safety Town” program.

This program teaches children the safety basics of bicycle riding, driving safety, safety while a pedestrian and being safe while out at night.

Palestine and area schools participated in the event, including Elkhart, Slocum, Cayuga and Neches.

The instructive, interactive events are just one of the many facets of public service in the uniform sector.

Those with an interest in these and similar events while in public service as a firefighter may apply before March 31. Palestine has openings for entry-level firefighters.

Individuals may contact the City of Palestine or the Palestine Fire Department to receive an application packet.

The completed packet must be returned by Friday, March 31, no later than 5 p.m., to Mike Phillips, Risk Manager, City of Palestine, 504 N. Queen St. Palestine, TX 75801.

Examinations for entry-level officers for the Palestine Fire Department are scheduled at 9 a.m. on Saturday, April 29, at the Palestine Police Department Training Room inside the Palestine Mall, 2000 S. Loop 256, Suite 38.

The test will start at 9 a.m. and applicants will need a photo ID to sit for the exam. Applicants who are late to the exam will not be admitted.

If an applicant passes the written exam, he or she will take the physical agility test immediately following the exam at Fire Station No. 4 on Highway 287. Applicants must also sign and notarize a waiver for the physical agility exam.

Palestine Civil Service Local Rule 9.02 requires fire certification at the time of signing up to take the exam or evidence of current enrollment in an approved academy. It also requires EMT certification at the time of the exam or evidence of current enrollment in an EMT class approved by the Texas Department of Health. Applicants must have successfully completed an academy for structural firefighter as well as training for EMT, before being offered a position with the fire department.

For those currently certified, attach a copy of the Texas Commission on Fire Protection certificate. For those with military service, also include a copy of the DD214.

Interested parties 36 years of age or older are not eligible to apply.

For further questions, contact Susie Streb at 903-731-8421 or Mike Phillips at 903-731-8477.