The training needed to be a firefighter is intensive and take members many hours to complete. The PA State fire commissioner recognizes departments who have taken the initiative to train their members to the States training criteria of Firefighter 1. Departments with more than 10% of members training are eligible for recognition, and The Polk township Volunteer fire company was recognized with 50 percent of the members holding this certification and are recognized under the Participating Department Recognition Program Program. The next level or recognition happens at 75% certified, which we are rapidly approaching and hope to soon be recognized for as our members continue to train.