Murphy, Wylie and Sachse firefighters sharpened their skills last week with three days of joint training in Garland.

Training was conducted Wednesday through Friday, May 29-31 in facilities at Garland Fire Department.

Purpose of the exercise, in addition to practicing skills and learning new techniques, was for the departments to work together as they do when responding to mutual aid calls.

In one exercise last week, a fire in a single story building was simulated with smoke rolling out doors and windows. Firefighters from Wylie secured the perimeter of the building, Murphy personnel climbed the roof to cut an access/vent hole and Sachse firefighters entered the structure with fire hoses.

When a real situation is encountered, the firefighters from the three departments will know how each other respond and can better coordinate their efforts, Wylie Capt. Robert Nishiyama explained.

A series of different scenarios were staged during the 3-day training session. For example, firefighters entered a smoke-filled structure, located a victim and removed the victim from harm.

Each department brought its own fire unit and drove them into position according to what was required in a scenario. Firefighters utilized equipment from each truck, regardless of whether it was from their department.

Firefighters from several area cities conduct joint exercises several times during the year.

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By Joe Reavis • [email protected]