On March 25th, the Elmira Heights Fire Department organized a training night centered on the usage of a new Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) pack that had recently been put into service.

Firefighters practiced operating and using the equipment during hands-on drills. The Elmira Heights Fire Company provided the RIT pack, which is meant to provide an emergency air supply for firefighters in difficulty as well as breathing air to patients stuck in dangerous conditions.

The sturdy equipment is designed to resist harsh environments and can provide up to an hour of breathing air when needed during rescue operations.

According to department officials, the new equipment improves firefighter safety and the department's capacity to work effectively during emergencies.