Newton’s Notes

This morning I did a story with the Arligton Fire Department. That’s me and my photographer James with the Training Supervisor, Lt. Kirk Turner.

The firefighters were training on bus extrication. A timely drill considering last week’s deadly bus crash in Sherman.

Crews were learning how to get people out in the event that all of the exits were blocked. It isn’t something that happens very often, but in the event it does, I’m glad to know rescue crews are well prepared.

These guys had all kinds of power tools, but let me tell ya, cutting through those buses wasn’t easy! I was sweating just watching them.

The buses were donated by the Arlington Independant School District. The buses were old, and were not operational, so they allowed the fire department to train on them before scrapping them. An interesting fact, the Arlington Fire Department depends heavily on donated structures to train. (That way they’re not using taxpayer dollars) If you know of a structure that is about to be demolished and could be used for training you can call the Arlington Training Office: 817-459-6023

I’m sure they would greatly appreciate it!

Watch Video: Firefighters Train For Rescues With Old Buses