CORTLAND, NY — August 26, 2026 — On Wednesday nite, members of the Virgil and Cortlandville fire departments came together for equipment rescue training. They practiced a number of scenarios intended to assess their abilities in situations involving trapped or injured people.

Firefighters had the chance to go through rescue issues that may need for specialized equipment, well-coordinated operations, and cautious patient handling during the combined training, which included scenarios including entanglement and crushing injuries.

Additionally, training together allows nearby agencies to familiarize themselves with each other's people, tools, and rescue protocols before those resources are required in a real emergency.

The session was hosted by Past Chief Dave Denniston, who has extensive experience in the local and state fire service. The National Volunteer Fire Council recognized Denniston in 2025 with its William J. Darley Lifetime Achievement Award. According to the NVFC, he joined the Cortlandville Fire Department in 1989, served as chief from 2004 to 2006 and has held leadership and instructional roles at the county, state and national levels.

Denniston has also been involved in the development of fire-service training opportunities in Cortland County. Town of Cortlandville records describe his involvement in early planning for the county's Regional Training Center, including discussions about creating an extrication pad and other specialized training props.