Staff Report / cbuslocal.org

**Columbus Fire Bomb Squad Welcomes Two New Technicians**

COLUMBUS, OH – The Columbus Division of Fire has welcomed two new bomb technicians to its Bomb Squad. Firefighters Joe Curran and Zak Magee graduated from the FBI’s Hazardous Devices School on September 27, 2024, after completing six weeks of specialized training at the facility in Huntsville, Alabama.

This milestone is particularly notable for Curran, who will serve alongside his father, Pat Morris, making them the first father and son duo on the Columbus Bomb Squad since its establishment in 1966. Morris, a 30-year veteran firefighter, has been with the Bomb Squad for 19 years and emphasizes the importance of thorough preparation for new recruits. He stated, “I've been a huge advocate of having these guys prepare before they go down to the schoolhouse for their six weeks,” adding that this preparation helps to better equip candidates than many who arrive at the school.

Before attending the school, new bomb tech trainees do approximately two years of hands-on work with the squad, observing and participating in various operations. Morris mentioned that they are involved in much more than just handling explosives.

Magee, a 13-year veteran with Columbus Fire, expressed his enthusiasm for joining the Bomb Squad. "I enjoy being on the bomb squad and being a firefighter paramedic with the Columbus Fire Department," he said. He felt well-prepared for the rigorous training but also acknowledged the extensive knowledge gained at the school.

Curran, who has served with the Columbus Fire Department for seven years, praised the quality of instruction at the FBI’s Hazardous Device School. He described the training as comprehensive, teaching techniques on safely managing potential bomb incidents and utilizing the equipment on their trucks.

Morris shared his pride in Curran's accomplishments, noting that his son has worked hard to earn his position on the team. "He’s done everything on his own from the time he was hired by the division," Morris said.

The Columbus Fire Bomb Squad, which serves 36 counties in Ohio, is responsible for responding to approximately 300 calls each year. The unit also conducts safety sweeps for major public events, including those at Ohio University and Ohio State University, and events like the Arnold Sports Festival and Red, White, and Boom.

Since its inception, the Bomb Squad has had only 55 technicians, with Magee and Curran now being the 54th and 55th members. There are approximately 3,600 public safety bomb technicians in the U.S., and around 10% are part of fire departments.

Source: Columbus Division of Fire

Source Type: Fire

Source Location: Columbus

Columbus, OH

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