GROVES, Texas — Southeast Texas firefighters now have a chance to do more than just fight fires.
Several Groves firefighters and Port Neches Fire Chief Eloy Vega have chosen to be dual-certified, meaning they can aid law enforcement in case of an active shooter situation.
They are certified firefighters by the Texas Commission on Fire Protection and a certified peace officer by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement.
In 2023, Senate Bill 1852 mandated active shooter training for all law enforcement in Texas. So, dual-certified firefighters are required to participate in this training.
Vega tells 12News that he is actively looking to bring more training to his department to prepare for future emergencies.
"This training in June is going to provide another opportunity to send more individuals from our department, and from other departments in the area to again, learn what it is to function on a rescue task force team," Vega said.
This type of training is the Active Attack Integrated Response, which has an ultimate goal of multi-agencies working together in the case of an emergency or active shooter.
Chief Vega says it's important for firefighters to be dual-certified.
Even though it's not mandatory, it adds help to whatever agency needs it most at the scene of an emergency.
"There are those that are dual-certified as firefighters and police officers, those individuals, although becoming more prevalent, are understanding that now they can, they can do either or function," he said.
This training helps firefighters adapt with the changes happening in society.
But along with these changes, come learning curves.
"Firefighters, whereas before never dreamed of wearing a ballistic vest, or a ballistic helmet, are accepting the reality of that, it's going to be part of our equipment in our toolbox moving forward," Chief Vega said.
Two weeks ago, the Nederland Police Department held their active shooter training in conjunction with several agencies of law enforcement.
Along with these agencies were the firefighters from Groves Fire Department.
"Having them go with us, we actually got to see some of their skills and abilities, and it helps put a little bit of relief on us that we know that if something does happen, they have our back," said Nederland Assistant Chief of Police, Andrew Arnold.