By Haley Mitchell Godwin

Volunteer firefighters from across Crenshaw County attended a specialized training session last week via Alabama Fire College’s mobile training facility which spent a few days in Luverne. 

The 53-foot long, computerized trailer, equipped with moveable metal walls and doors, allowed firefighters to experience realistic scenarios, including search and rescue operations, ladder training and live fire attacks. The unit can even simulate two-story situations, complete with propane flames and artificial smoke to mimic real-life emergencies.

Chief Bill McManigle of the Luverne Volunteer Fire Department emphasized the importance of the training, particularly for newer, less-experienced firefighters.

 “There are a lot of new, young firefighters in various departments, and this kind of training really helps them get a feel for things,” McManigle said. “They can see and feel the flames coming at them from both ways, and it really gets them used to going into a hot building.”

Airpack training, McManigle noted, is a crucial part of the exercise.

“Using the airpacks takes a lot of getting used to, so the air pack training is one of the most important things they can undergo,” he said. 

The training allows firefighters to become familiar with the equipment in a safe, controlled environment.

While many of the county’s smaller fire departments don’t encounter frequent fires, McManigle stressed that even one fire can have devastating consequences. 

“This training helps us stay prepared,” he said. “There’s more to it than just putting the wet stuff on the red stuff.” 

The chief also highlighted the collaborative training efforts with the nearby Rutledge Volunteer Fire Department, emphasizing that ongoing training is critical for ensuring the best service for Crenshaw County citizens. Firefighters attending the session learned about dangerous fire behaviors like rollovers and flashovers.

“Rollover is one of the most important warning signs of an impending flashover,” trainers explained. A flashover occurs when fire temperatures reach around 1,200 degrees, leading to the near-simultaneous ignition of all combustible materials in a space. The mobile training facility is equipped to simulate ceiling-level fire temperatures of up to 1,200 degrees, allowing firefighters to train for these extreme conditions.

The Alabama Fire College plans to return with additional mobile units in the coming months, focusing on confined space training and propane-based scenarios.

Looking ahead, McManigle revealed plans for a new training tower currently under construction at the site of the old jail, expected to be completed within the next few months.

McManigle also pointed out the importance of training records for each department’s annual Insurance Services Office (ISO) score. ISO ratings, which range from one to 10, evaluate the effectiveness of a fire department’s protective services, with a rating of one being the best. Luverne and Brantley Fire Departments have maintained Class 4 ratings for many years, while larger departments like Montgomery have achieved a Class 1 rating.

Although the Luverne Volunteer Fire Department is currently at capacity, McManigle noted that other departments in the county are in need of volunteers. With more training opportunities than ever before, now is an excellent time to consider joining a local department.

For more information on how to volunteer, contact the Crenshaw County Association of Volunteer Fire Departments at (334) 335-4538.