Kentucky firefighters train for urban search and rescue

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WTVQ) – Firefighters from across the state are heading into town on Thursday to attend the 4th Structural Collapse class hosted by the Lexington Fire Department.

Photo Courtesy: Lexington Fire Department

The class encompasses engineering, collapse patterns, shoring, breaching and breaking of concrete and metal structures, and lifting and moving heavy objects using a variety of tools, mechanical advantage systems and cranes.  Firefighters from Paducah, Ashland, Louisville, Northern Kentucky and Corbin, among others, are in attendance this week.

Photo Courtesy: Lexington Fire Department

The unique training prepares firefighters, to be effective in urban emergencies where there is significant structural damage, everything from a vehicle driving into a structure, to earthquake, tornado, and terrorist attacks.