Tulsa, OK – The Tulsa Fire Department is hosting a four-week Technical Rescue Academy that brings together 27 firefighters from across the region to strengthen advanced rescue skills.
Participants include firefighters from the Tulsa Fire Department, Oklahoma City Fire Department, Jenks Fire Department, Oak Cliff Fire Department, and Verdigris Fire District, many of whom also serve with Oklahoma Task Force One.
The academy focuses on preparing responders for complex and high-risk incidents such as trench rescues, confined space emergencies, and structural collapses.
During the first week, crews concentrated on trench rescue operations, a highly technical and time-sensitive discipline. Officials said the training is especially timely following a recent trench rescue in the area.
The academy was organized by Tulsa Fire Department Capt. Matt Bell, OK-TF1 Rescue Coordinator for the Tulsa Division. Oklahoma City Fire Department Maj.
Steve Long served as the lead instructor for the trench rescue portion. Fire officials say the training helps ensure responders remain prepared to safely and effectively handle challenging rescue situations.