Last Saturday, John Matthees Jr. allowed the local fire department to train in a structure he planned to demolish. The structure was previously owned by Jerry Geyen who is moving out of the area. MLFD firefighters were able to host others from Annandale and South Haven on October 30 for live burn fire training. Acquired structure training affords the most realistic type of scenarios, but several items have to be considered before firefighters can participate. Here is the normal process.
After an initial contact by a person with structure to be demolished, a site visit will take place. The local FD may bring in a qualified training provider to verify the structure can provide safe interior fire training. The owner is then required to hire a licensed asbestos inspector to do a survey of the building. Any asbestos containing building materials must be removed in an approved manner prior to training. Other items must be removed as well, such as thermostats, fluorescent light bulbs/ballasts, smoke detectors, appliances, furniture, tanks and any debris. The FD then works to make the structure safe by patching any holes, reinforcing handrails, cleaning, and isolating areas that may be unsafe. In addition, the MN Pollution Control Agency is notified of the intent to perform the demolition and forms are submitted. The DNR approves the local agency a special permit and verifies there is a burn plan.
To read more about this live fire training, pick up a copy of the Messenger today!
Stay Fire Safe!
Scott Carriveau, Maple Lake