Old building sparks new training opportunities for local firefighters

The Kerrville Fire Department is conducting fire training this week. It began Monday, March 10, and will continue through Sunday, March 16, at the former EntertainMart building at 501 Main St.

This fire training is an opportunity allowed by the owner and demolition company before the demolition of the building.

“We frequently coordinate with property owners to use their building for fire scenarios prior to demolition. These are conducted in a controlled setting with specific objectives per training scenario from fire tactics, advancing hoselines, roof operations, rescues, maydays and more,” said Kerrville Fire Marshall Jason Lackey in a press release.

Shifts each day will help to rotate all firefighters through the training evolutions to practice and prepare for real-world responses.

On Wednesday, the Kerrville Fire Department was conducting interior missions and roof operations in the building.

“If you have a commercial or residential structure with plans to demolish, please contact the Kerrville Fire Department. We will evaluate the structure for safety and how to incorporate scenario training,” Lackey said. “We are thankful for the generosity of the owner and demolition company to conduct training and appreciate the support of the community.”

To contact the Kerrville Fire Department, call 830-257-8449.

This article was originally published in the March 13, 2025 edition of The Kerrville Daily Times.