The West Grove Fire Company has always had a reputation for continuous learning and training. For the past few months, due to the generosity of the New London Township supervisors, the fire company has been able to take advantage of using an acquired house in New London Township.

Having an acquired structure provides the benefit of training under more realistic circumstances, and this is particularly helpful as many of the fires faced by first responders are in residential houses. One of the most important trainings was conducted over several sessions and was focused on firefighter survival. First responders learned techniques to breach walls if necessary for escape and rescue, and how to bail out of windows. While most fires are fairly routine, firefighters train for worst-case scenarios to build skills for rescue and safety, and how to deal with getting out of the risk of being trapped in a fire.

In training, crews were able to maneuver hose lines throughout the house, with typically-narrow, residential hallways, and work around objects in each bedroom as would be the case in a real live fire situation. Crews could also practice the techniques of overhaul, opening walls and spaces to expose fire. During the months the fire company had access to this house, more formal trainings were scheduled - like firefighter survival. And, due to the continuous access to the acquired house, many of the fire company's evening duty crews rode over for spot trainings when they had time, as did the career staff during their regular shifts.

Even though there was no heat or fire during the trainings, the members were able to work on their objectives of different hose line movement or moving personnel through a house structure. At several trainings, the WGFC's smoke machine was utilized to create a "smoke-like" environment. Many of the members training are newer and have not had opportunities to get this type of experience under a controlled and safe environment.

Over many months, many more than a dozen training sessions using the structure were held at the house which used to sit adjacent to the New London Township offices and park on West Avondale Road. The structure has now been demolished and the property will be used to expand township facilities.

The WGFC appreciates the graciousness of New London Township in allowing the fire company's members and staff to use this structure prior to the house being demolished. Our thanks to Supervisors Mary Anne Steel, Dale Lauver and Dale Yates. The fire company benefits from its strong partnerships with area municipal officials, and, in this case, the support from New London was most appreciated.

At the WGFC, we see every day as a training day!