VIDEO: The Champaign Fire Department got extra training hours last week; specifically with their response when hazardous materials are involved. Friday morning, crews participated in a mock chemical spill drill. The training was successful: it simulated what to do in the event of a train collision and a hazardous spill.
The Champaign Fire Department Battalion Chief said itโs pretty rare for their first responders to be able to learn on such advanced equipment. Since Tuesday, firefighters have worked with the Norfolk Southern Railroad Safety Train in cooperation with Canadian National. Their training included classroom instructions and a rail car review. Crews learned how the cars on the train are put together, and proper response steps when a incident involving a train, like a fire, a derailment or a chemical spill, takes place.
