OTTUMWA, IOWA -- Heartland firefighters are receiving training on a whole new level.
Firefighters at the Ottumwa Central Fire Station attended classes at the National Fire Academy in Maryland.
The academy teaches firefighters how to become thinkers instead of doers.
Firefighters complete different exercises and are tested physically and mentally.
Five captains, three assistant chiefs and the fire chief have all completed the classes.
Fire Captain Bryan Carnahan learned a lot from the academy and enjoyed every minute of it.
"This is a program that is well worth it," Carnahan said. "I was out there with departments that had stations that are bigger than our department. We are getting the same training that they are getting."
After completing the classes, firefighters attend a graduation ceremony and are presented with certificates from the National Fire Academy.
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