Training in the “Fire Dragon”

Around 540 firefighters ensured smooth operations on Daimler-Benz-Straße in Fulda over a period of 10 days: at the North Fire Department base, the firefighters trained in various firefighting scenarios in the “Fire Dragon”. The district of Fulda is supporting this training with around 41,500 euros. “This sum is well invested – for the safety of all of us,” said District Administrator Bernd Woide during a visit to the facility and thanked those present on behalf of all firefighters who are committed to protecting the lives and well-being of others.

You can see more from outside than inside: The thermal imaging camera, which provides images from the completely smoke-filled simulation container, makes it very clear what an effort the two firefighters from Rothemann are making: Viktor Baumann and Nicolas Will are two of around 1,700 respiratory protection wearers in the district, and they are trying to find a person in a recreated living room in total darkness and thick smoke. The search for her and the rescue of the 75 kg doll is observed by Philipp Adelmann from the Fulda fire department. The district respiratory protection instructor is in radio contact with the team the entire time and also keeps an eye on the safety of the two emergency workers.

The operation in the smoke-filled training room lasts a good 10 minutes. Then it’s straight into a fire room, which looks at least as impressive from the outside. Heat, darkness and flash flames require the utmost concentration and maximum reaction time – and in addition with the knowledge that a small child is missing, whose screams are even played. “With this kind of training, you get pretty close to the realistic stress level,” says Philipp Adelmann, who gives the participants detailed feedback afterwards.

“I am always impressed by what firefighters do,” said District Administrator Woide, who has followed both scenarios. “Basically, everyone should keep reminding themselves that people are doing this of their own free will, on a voluntary basis and out of a sense of responsibility for others.” I am very grateful for that.” The coordination and organization is being carried out by the Fulda District Hazard Control Department. District respiratory protection instructors and employees of the Fulda Volunteer Fire Department have been registered as instructors. The rental costs for the “Fire Dragon” are borne by the State of Hesse. +++