Gales Ferry, CT - Gales Ferry Volunteer Fire Company conducted a focused training evolution centered on initial company operations at a simulated structure fire in a non-hydranted area, emphasizing speed, coordination, and effective use of limited resources.

On August 6, 2026, in New London County, Connecticut, crews operated under staged response conditions designed to replicate delayed arrival into rural neighborhoods. Upon arrival, members were required to complete a rapid scene size-up, initiate command-level thinking, and begin immediate tactical operations.

Firefighters deployed a handline for initial fire attack, forced entry using the department’s door prop, and established a water supply utilizing a tanker-to-engine operation. The drill was intentionally structured around minimal staffing, with only two personnel assigned to the engine and one firefighter operating the tanker, placing emphasis on prioritization and task efficiency.

Despite the limited manpower, crews demonstrated strong proficiency and coordination, successfully placing a hoseline in service within a short operational window after arrival. The exercise reinforced critical fireground fundamentals including communication, water supply management, and effective task execution in areas without hydrant access.