WEST SENECA, NY — August 19 — Members of the Vigilant Fire Company, based in West Seneca, participated in a practical training session that focused on vehicle extrication and handling car fires.

The exercise involved practicing with both manual and hydraulic tools used for extrication, allowing firefighters to review the selection, placement, and proper use of these tools while working in the space around damaged vehicles.

After completing the extrication part of the drill, members also practiced fire suppression techniques in a simulated vehicle fire scenario.

Training with damaged vehicles enables firefighters to develop and refine skills such as vehicle stabilization, access, and disentanglement in a controlled environment.

These skills are essential during motor vehicle accidents where individuals may be trapped in compromised vehicles.New York State fire training also highlights the importance of scene assessment, vehicle stabilization, safety protocols, and efficient, safe extrication procedures.

The training session held on August 19 gave Vigilant Fire Company members more hands-on experience with equipment and the opportunity to practice coordinating rescue and fire suppression tasks. The Vigilant Fire Company is part of West Seneca Fire District 6 and is located at 666 Main Street.