Springfield first responders train together

Springfield continues to build on its emergency response education, by hosting another successful training session focused on a Hazmat chemical spill. This training was unique as all of Springfield’s first responders worked and trained together during the August 20 session. 

“We’re lucky in Springfield to have fire, ambulance, and police that work well together. Trainings like this make sure our first responders are ready to act as one team when it really counts, and that teamwork is what keeps our community safe,” stated City Manager, Amber Dale.  

Over three dozen of Springfield’s first responders from the ambulance, fire and police departments joined in the chemical spill training exercise. 

They trained for an anhydrous ammonia spill, which is a highly efficient, colorless gas and a concentrated source of nitrogen fertilizer for crops like corn. It is a commonly used fertilizer but can be quite dangerous. 

Farmward Cooperative brought in a tank for the first responders to practice their training on. 

Chris Gartner, Springfield Fire Chief explained, “We did drills with both firemen and farmers getting hurt and we had the ambulance there to help us.” 

 “It was a great experience training with the Springfield Fire Department and the Springfield Police Department,” said Paula Thomas.

See complete article in this week's issue of the Springfield Advance-Press.