The Champaign Fire Department has dedicated this week to boosting its training specifically for responding to incidents involving hazardous materials.

On Friday morning, fire crews engaged in a simulated chemical spill exercise. This drill replicated the procedures for managing a train collision that results in a hazardous spill.

The Champaign Fire Department Battalion Chief remarked that such hands-on training with sophisticated equipment is a rare opportunity for their first responders. Since Tuesday, the firefighters have been collaborating with the Norfolk Southern Railroad Safety Train, alongside Canadian National specialists.

This training program comprised both classroom education and an examination of a rail car. Firefighters gained insights into the assembly of train cars and learned the correct response actions for incidents, such as fires, derailments, or chemical spills.

“It’s an exceptional chance for our team to handle real trains and equipment,” stated Brian Ball, the Battalion Chief. “They encounter appliances and valves that aren’t available in our standard training tools.”

Chief Ball emphasized that this training aims to familiarize his first responders with scenarios they might not have previously faced, ensuring they are prepared to handle these types of emergencies effectively.

The Battalion Chief said they do not see these situations often. In fact, the last similar incident he mentioned was about two years ago in Pesotum. There was a train derailment, but no hazardous chemicals were present.