10/12/2026
Walking in Our Boots: Karen Lynch Experiences Live Fire Training
Recently, Karen Lynch, Chair of the Skippack Township, Pennsylvania Board of Supervisors, joined Skippack Fire Company members for a live burn training exercise to experience firsthand what volunteer firefighters encounter during emergency responses.
One of her biggest takeaways was the physical challenge of the job.
"My biggest surprise was how heavy the equipment is to wear. You always hear this, but until you put it on, you can't appreciate it. Then how much sweating is involved and the importance of good hydration."
Karen also gained a new appreciation for the importance of regular training and the value of having a burn building in our community.
"We're lucky to have a training facility in our backyard and it is critical to run people through regular drills."
Inside the burn building, she witnessed fire behavior, the effects of smoke, and the near-zero visibility firefighters face.
"I was amazed at the lack of visibility for firefighters and how they use the back of their hand to navigate a room."
The experience left her with a deep appreciation for Skippack's volunteers.
"I wish people knew how fortunate we are to have such brave and dedicated people who are willing to 'go in' when common sense tells you to 'run out.' And they all do it as volunteers!"
Thank you, Karen, for stepping into our world and seeing firsthand the training, dedication, and sacrifice required to protect our community.
🚒 Interested in serving your community? Contact us to learn more about becoming a volunteer.
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https://www.skippackfire.com/news/1261/Walking-in-Our-Boots-Karen-Lynch-Experiences-Live-Fire-Training
