First responders train continuously to be ready for nearly any kind of emergency. But, unfortunately, firefighter and EMTs have to be ready if they get involved in a situation where their personal safety is at risk. That is why first responders from both the West Grove Fire Company and Avondale Fire Company came together at Station 22 in West Grove for a session on self-defense techniques.

Fortunately, the WGFC has an active firefighter in Rob Kloss who is a 8th-degree black belt and has been training in martial arts for over 41 years. Rob put together a class to help first responders with basic skills in self-defense. He was joined by his colleague Chad Dulin of Cecil County (a 9th-degree black belt) whose background is in law enforcement. Together they lectured on self-defense and ten had the 20+ first responders practice some hands-on techniques that could get them out of dangerous situations.

Chad operates an academy in Lower Susquehanna Arnis/Kempo/Jujutsu. Rob operates Cornerstone Martial Arts in nearby Hockessin, Delaware. We thank them for their expertise and assisting 22 and 23 first responders to be prepared to protect their own safety and helping to continue the WGFC tradition of ongoing learning.