Firefighters use abandoned hotel in downtown Fort Myers for training

LEE COUNTY, Fla.- An abandoned hotel in downtown Fort Myers is getting new life as a tool for firefighters.

Tuesday, crews used the former Ambassador Hotel to train on fighting high-rise fires.

WINK News confirms even more multistory  buildings will soon be built along the river front. Builders are moving ahead with three more high-rise condo buildings along the Caloosahatchee River.

That means, this kind of training is vital. Renovation of the old hotel is just beginning, but Tuesday afternoon, a couple dozen Fort Myers and South Trail firefighters used it for practice.

Some climbed up six stories in full gear, to fight a fire and rescue two dummy victims.

They dealt with logistical and communication problems that go hand in hand with high-rise emergencies.

In coming days and weeks, other agencies will also begin to use the building for practice.