Naples firefighters take part in live fire training

The Greater Naples Fire Rescue District is conducting live fire training using a real house throughout the first week of November.

The training includes small fires inside the house which will allow firefighters the opportunity to recognize changing fire conditions in a controlled environment. They’ll also be using the opportunity to evaluate key pieces of technology and equipment in their intended real-world setting.

“To have a donated structure and to be able to conduct live fire training is a rare opportunity, and is absolutely a phenomenal opportunity for us to be able to do something of this nature,” said Lt. Todd Nugent, with the Greater Naples Fire Department’s training division.

The training starts Monday and continues through Friday, when the structure will be burned down completely.

“Our job is measured in seconds,” Nugent said. “And the difference between being able to save somebody and to possibly not save them, so any opportunity that we can to be able to become more comfortable in the use of our tools and equipment, and be able to do it in a realistic scenario, is invaluable to our people.”

Members of the Marco Island Fire Department, the City of Naples Fire Department and Collier County Emergency Medical Services will also take part in the training.