Ohio Fire Academy Training Trailer Visits Highland Heights

firefighters are getting practice battling through smoke to save victims in a state trailer used for training.

"It's designed like a residential structure. It presents a very realistic situation," said Chief William Turner. "We've used the fire station, but you know the layout."

The Ohio Fire Academy Mobile Search and Rescue Training Lab is set up to represent a garden apartment, with a living room, kitchen, bathroom and bedroom. Firefighters are sent in to rescue three "victims," which are actually dummies, and have to find their way through a continual cloud of smoke.

"There are three victims strategically placed. In the search and rescue, the firemen have to find the people and get them out," said David Saltenis, firefighter/paramedic and assistant training officer.

He said the trailer is fairly new – this was the first stop in the eastern suburbs – and the experience surpasses training simulations they've done previously.

"It's really good training. I've heard nothing but good things about it," Saltenis said.

During its three-day stop, the trailer also is being used by fire departments from Mayfield Heights, Mayfield Village, Gates Mills, Richmond Heights, Lyndhurst, Pepper Pike and Willoughby Hills.

Saltenis said it's important get realistic experiences that firefighters can fall back on when faced with an actual fire.

"The training's invaluable," he said. "It's controlled situations like this that give you confidence when you encounter the real thing."

It also provides a chance to test equipment, such as a $15,000 thermal imaging camera. Highland Heights has one, but is trying out other models as well, seeing what works best. Even in the dark, with a thick wall of smoke as well, a screen on the device provides the sort of "night vision" view you'd find on a TV show about ghost hunters.

"It's so sensitive that you can actually see your footprints," Saltenis said.

In addition to the first-floor apartment, the trailer has an upper level that tests ability to get through confined spaces, including areas where they can't get through with all of their gear. The route not only narrows, there also are wires and other problems you might encounter in crawl spaces between floors.

"You have different obstacles. The firemen have to get through a confined area," Saltenis said.

Practicing these situations, including removing gear and putting it back on in the dark, can make a difference at a fire scene, he said.

"God forbid, something happens, you go back to your training," Saltenis said. "Our philosophy is you practice like you play."