New Tripoli Fire Company volunteer firefighters and Fire Chief Peter Christ have reason to celebrate.

State Fire Commissioner Edward A. Mann recently notifed the fire company it had attained the 50 percent recognition level in the Participating Department Recognition Program for the firefighters voluntarily studying, learning and certifying at various levels of training to show competency at different firefighting skills.

The training levels include all that the Office of the State Fire Commissioner is accredited for by the National Pro-Board and International Fire Service Acreditation Congress in Oklahoma.

Chief Christ told The Press one benefit of earning certification, which is recognized at 10 percent, 50 percent, 75 percent and 100 percent levels, is to be eligible for state grants.

"With more certified personnel, the more eligible the fire company is for grant money," Christ said.

The chief emphasized the firefighters, ranging in age from 18 to 49, were the ones striving for certification.

"They are doing it on their own," Christ said. "As chief, I give them backing and reassurance. They used their own initiative to obtain certification."

Christ said one reason the firefighters seek certification is to better themselves.

"This in turn betters the fire team and service to the community. I am very proud," Christ said. "One of my, and the other officers' goals is to provide the community with more certified personnel."