Training Division With the advent of new technology and theory, comes a need for comprehensive training. The Fire and Emergency Medical Services (FEMS) Department's training division in Southwest Washington is responsible for developing programs to meet the varied training needs of the department. All recruits attend the training academy for an 18-week course that is separated into two sections: Six weeks of Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training. A passing score of 75% of the DHS Exam is required. Twelve weeks of fire training consisting of Fire Fighter I and Fire Fighter II certification. There are six written exams and six practical evolutions during this period each requiring a passing score of 75%. The Training Academy is also responsible for in-service training of members of the department. This involves company as well as individual performance of job descriptions stated in the National Fire Protection Act (NFPA) 1001,1997. Other courses include: Fire Fighter Intervention Search Team--Save Our Own Training (consisting of techniques for fire fighter survival while in disoriented situations) Hazardous Materials Awareness and Hazardous Material Level I Training; Drivers Training (mandatory for every employee in the DC FEMS Department, including uniformed as well as non-uniformed employees; for uniformed members this involves technical training on fire apparatus and a driving course) Fire Officer I and Fire Officer II Training. Fire Instructor I and Fire Instructor II.