Charleston firefighters train in real-world commercial setting

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – The Charleston Fire Department recently participated in a multi-jurisdictional training that simulated real-life scenarios.

Firefighters were given access to a former Big Lots commercial building, which is slated to be demolished, where they performed search and rescue drills, navigated unfamiliar layouts, and encountered low-visibility conditions they often encounter during actual emergencies.

According to Charleston Fire, the building’s roof provided a rare opportunity for crews to practice vertical ventilation techniques on a real commercial roof system.

“Typically, Ladder and Rescue companies train on residential-style roof props at their stations or regional training facilities,” the agency said in a Facebook post. “Having access to a commercial structure like this allows crews to experience the challenges and nuances of cutting ventilation holes on a larger, reinforced commercial roof — a skill that’s critical for safely and effectively managing fires in businesses, warehouses, and other large occupancies.”

The fire department said these types of opportunities give firefighters essential, real-world training that helps them stay sharp, improve coordination between companies, and enhance their readiness to respond to myriad emergencies throughout the community.