Marietta Firefighters are trained at least to the level of Operations in Hazardous Materials. A number of personnel choose to go on to the levels of Technician and Specialist.
Hazardous Materials Training is exceptionally demanding. Firefighters must endure long hours in protective clothing, often while wearing firefighting gear and self-contained breathing apparatus. Hazmat suits are designed to be impermeable so that agents or substances do not touch the wearer. They also prevent perspiration and heat from escaping, making the suits uncomfortable and difficult to wear for long periods of time.
Hazmat Training is designed to reflect the arduous and complex nature of an actual emergency; it is crucial for the firefighters to be mentally and physically prepared when they respond.