R. F. P. - Live Fire Dynamics Training Program

The Town of East Hartford, Connecticut is requesting proposals for a comprehensive, NFPA-compliant live fire dynamics training program under RFP Bid No. 27-06, with proposals due October 21, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Town Hall Purchasing Office.

The scope is a turnkey training solution comprising classroom instruction on modern fire behavior and dynamics, live fire evolutions demonstrating fire growth and ventilation effects, and a train-the-trainer program to build instructor capacity within the East Hartford Fire Department. The program must accommodate eight training sessions over approximately eight days, with 12–14 participants per session, and comply with NFPA 1400, 1403, 1407, and 1408 standards. The vendor must provide all equipment, a purpose-built fire behavior laboratory, and comprehensive safety oversight consistent with OSHA requirements. Upon completion, the vendor transfers the fire laboratory and equipment to the EHFD for ongoing departmental use. The program must be completed within 120 calendar days of contract execution.

Pricing shall include tuition, instruction, equipment, laboratory facilities, travel and logistics, and safety staffing. The evaluation matrix awards points for standards compliance (25), vendor experience with municipal training (20), training methodology quality (20), instructor qualifications (10), safety program documentation (10), cost-effectiveness (10), and implementation planning (5). Best-value evaluation considers qualifications, compliance, safety, instructional quality, and cost-effectiveness.

The awardee must provide evidence of good standing from the Connecticut Secretary of State, maintain $1,000,000 in commercial general liability and $5,000,000 in umbrella liability, and indemnify the Town fully. No alternate proposals will be considered unless specifically requested. The Town reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to include mutual aid partners in available training seats. Contact Michelle Enman at menman@easthartfordct.gov or 860-291-7271 for inquiries.