Volunteer firefighters from California borough, West Brownsville, South Brownsville and Richeyville came to California University of Pennsylvania on July 19 for emergency preparedness training.

The purpose of the drill was to ensure the units are prepared in the event of an incident at the university that would require ladders and aerial trucks. Crews tested the ability of equipment to reach residence halls, the Natali Student Center, Manderino Library and the Convocation Center and reviewed hydrant locations.

“We welcome the opportunity to partner with our local fire departments,” said Ben Wise, fire safety specialist in the Office of Environmental Health and Safety at Cal U. “The training gives firefighters an opportunity to get more familiar with their equipment and our campus. It also prepares our campus community in the event of an emergency.”

“It’s something we like to do periodically to update our pre-plans,” said Jamison Roth, director of Recreational Services at Cal U and a captain, financial secretary and training officer with the California Volunteer Fire Department. “It’s important to be prepared.”