Veiligheidsregio Utrecht has assembled two new exercise trailers for realistic simulation. These trailers contain everything needed to create larger-scale simulations.
Proven Success
Each fire station in Utrecht has long had a basic set of training materials, suitable for simulating realistic fire scenarios. Many exercise leaders are also trained in realistic simulation. They not only know how to use the materials optimally but also understand why realistic simulation takes your exercises to the next level, what’s involved in making simulations truly realistic (it’s more than just creating beautiful flames), and how to critically assess your results. Robin Meerbeek of VRU saw the benefits of this approach and wanted to take it further: creating larger simulations in a realistic manner. At the 2023 fire event, he discussed this with FireWare. From there, plans were made to equip two trailers with simulation materials. These trailers will be used by the vocational training department to set up larger simulations, for example, for the annual station-based exercises.
New Technology
Part of the exercise sets includes the brand-new Pandora’s Box 230 controllers. VRU was the first to use these new devices shortly after the summer. The Pandora’s Box 230 allows for dynamic control of larger simulations, from your own smartphone or tablet. In addition to a smoke machine, up to three flame effects can be connected. By scanning the QR code, you connect to the Wi-Fi network of the box and open the web interface. All connected devices can be controlled from here. The Pandora’s Box also handles the sound for the simulation. Whether it’s fire sounds, cries for help, or other effects, the two connected speakers produce the sound at any desired location.
Hybrid Technology
The trailer contains numerous flame effects. The FireSpot is used to create the most realistic flames in combination with smoke. The Phoenix Silkflame provides large flame fronts. The trailer also includes gas-powered Vesta fire trainers. By combining these, hybrid simulation techniques can be used. Nothing is closer to real fire than real fire itself, so whenever possible, using a controlled real fire is highly valuable. The heat from the flames puts the brain in the right mode to then experience all the simulated fire as “real.”
Casualties
Of course, the training dummies are also essential. VRU has chosen the Duty-range dummies from Ruth Lee. These incredibly durable training dummies with a realistic body weight ratio simulate an unconscious casualty. This allows training objectives such as proper interior reconnaissance and casualty handling to be practiced.
Smoke
Various smoke machines are essential. To create a realistic simulation, a smoke machine is needed for each fire scenario. Not to obscure all visibility, but to serve as a projection surface for the flame effects. Since the smoke rises, it simultaneously creates a realistic smoke layer on the ceiling. Additionally, VRU has a perforated smoke hose. This can easily be connected to the Cumulus and Stratus smoke machines, producing a continuous line of smoke. This is ideal for wildfires, where there is a continuous line of ground fire, or to simulate smoke coming from under a roof edge. By using different smoke fluids, you can choose between thick, long-hanging smoke for blazing or wildfires, or lighter smoke next to the fire area.
Deployment
With all this equipment, it’s possible to create larger simulations. Think of house fires with flashovers or out-of-control fires, as well as small wildfires or industrial fires. The new exercise trailer opens up a world of training possibilities for VRU. Good luck!
