Norwich native joins Norwich Fire Department
Norwich — The newest member of the Norwich Fire Department, welcomed with a ceremony on Monday, is a Norwich native.
Paul Tardif Jr., who grew up in the Greeneville neighborhood and graduated from the Connecticut Fire Academy on Friday, has joined the department's Platoon 4 as a probationary firefighter, according to Fire Chief Kenneth Scandariato.
As a probationary firefighter, Scandariato explained, Tardif still has much to learn, including how to work all of the department's equipment and apparatus, where all of the city's hydrants are and what the standard codes of conduct entail.
Scandariato said several members of the fire department are good about helping probationary firefighters learn the job.
"We're looking forward to really good things from Paul," he said, explaining that Tardif has volunteer experience with the Laurel Hill department and "did really well" in the state academy's 14-week training program.
The Laurel Hill Volunteer Fire Department is one of five volunteer departments operating within the city.
"We're always happy to pick up one of the volunteers — they come with background already," Scandariato said.
On Monday afternoon, family and members of the fire department attended Tardif's pinning ceremony. Once he completes the probationary period and those supervising him sign off that he's ready, he'll become a full-time employee, Scandariato said.
The Norwich Fire Department has four platoons — three with 13 members and one with 14.
Twitter: @LindsayABoyle
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