FDIC conference honors courage, valor award recipient

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – Firefighters from around the world are in Indianapolis participating in one of the city’s largest conferences.

The Fire Department Instructors Conference opening ceremony was held Wednesday morning at the Indiana Convention Center. Firefighters will get to take on hands on training classes with more than 800 exhibitors.

During the opening ceremonies New Haven Fire fighter Ray Downey was honored with the Courage and Valor award.

One new item for them to try is a fire suit that weighs only four pounds.

24-Hour News 8 caught up with some first responders after they tested out some of the tools on display. They say that they have more freedom to move around in the lighter jacket and pants. Helping them move quicker than normal.

More than 30,000 firefighters are attending. The conference wraps up Saturday with a combat challenge.