In November 2019, FireWare was allowed to support the monodisciplinary cluster exercise “Proeftuin” of Fire Brigade Gelderland-Midden, Cluster South. As a result of this successful cooperation, our staging specialists were called in again this year to support the monodisciplinary exercise for all fire stations of the cluster. We can once again look back on a success!
After a forced pause in exercises due to the corona measures, the motivation to pick up the thread together was enormous. The old building of Woonzorgcirkel de Hoge Hof in Herveld, which was temporarily evacuated for demolition, formed the beautiful backdrop for six evenings of large-scale exercises. FireWare was present to provide dynamic staging of various fires.
Ravage and fire spread
An ATM in front of the building of the Hoge Hof care centre was subject to an explosive attack. This caused a fire and considerable havoc. A parked car caught fire. The fire developed rapidly. It spread to the first floor of the care centre. The firefighters were faced with a complex situation. Due to the complexity of the scenario, the fire was given time to spread to the second floor.
Staging the fire
On the first floor and in the hall, Stratus smoke machines with Heavy smoke fluid were used to create a realistic smoke image. Cumulus smoke machines were placed on the second storey to support the smoke layers. The flame effect was completed by tactical placement of Phoenix Silkflames and FireSpots. Part of the smoke was vented to the outside using perforated smoke hoses. By using outdoor smoke fluid, the layer of smoke remained intact for a long time even outside.
Our staging technician operated the exercise equipment remotely from a central location. This meant that there was always a good view of the staging. The staging of the car fire was also lit remotely. The Vesta fire extinguisher that was used for this could be extinguished by the units.
The final exercise lasted more than two hours. Four fire engines, an aerial work platform and an duty officer were deployed from cluster south to fight the fires.
Quick response
At the time of the exercise, the premises of the Hoge Hof had not yet been fully evacuated. Therefore, shortly before the exercise, there was a deviation from the script. We were able to switch gears quickly when providing the staging.
Due to the coronavirus, it was decided after two evenings to not continue the exercise. Of course, we regret this enormously. However, we look back on what we have achieved together in a positive way. Many fire stations were able to work together again with great enthusiasm on their professional skills. And that is what it is all about! Our special thanks go to Henk den Rooijen and Ron Kampschreur for awarding us this opportunity. It was a pleasure!
Do you also have an exercise in mind where our staging technicians and rental fleet can make the difference? Then please contact us. We would love to talk to you without any obligations!
