Training complex could help lower insurance rates
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A new fire and emergency training complex in Calera would be the first of its kind in Alabama. It could also mean insurance savings for Shelby County residents.
More than 15 municipal and volunteer fire departments have pledged more than $1 million toward a proposed training facility in line with some of the top in the Southeast.
The county is on the verge of a deal to acquire land for the complex, donated by the city of Calera, according to County Manager Alex Dudchock.
“Twelve months from now, we should have a fire tower in place and being used,” he said.
The tower, complete with different structures such as roofs, stairwells and elevator shafts, will also include gas-fueled flames that turn off and on with the flick of a switch.
County Commissioner Jon Parker, who also serves as a firefighter in Calera, said the proposed facility is similar to ones used by departments in New York City and Los Angeles.
“This is the best of the best,” he said.
The complex would also include an obstacle course for fire engines and rail cars donated for training by the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum.
Providing such resources to the county’s volunteer and municipal departments can help fire departments meet criteria for lower ISO ratings, which could lead to lower insurance rates, Dudchock said.
“One of the biggest beneficiaries of this structure is the volunteer firefighters,” Dudchock said. “We want the training availability for paid and non-paid departments to be commensurate.”
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