Dunn’s Corners Firefighters Trained for Horse Emergencies

Westerly, R.I. — October 14 — Members of the Dunn’s Corners Fire Department took part in a training session focused on handling emergencies involving horses and preparing for incidents in commercial buildings. The session was held in the evening and organized by Downeast Performance Horses LLC.

The training on horse emergencies aimed to equip firefighters with the knowledge and skills needed to respond effectively to situations involving large animals. These incidents can be complex due to the unpredictable behavior of frightened or injured horses, as well as the potential risks posed by their size and weight. Coordinating safely with individuals who understand the animals’ behavior is a key part of managing these types of emergencies.

In addition, firefighters practiced commercial building preplanning. This involves gathering information about a property before an emergency happens. Preplans typically include details like the layout of the building, entry points, potential hazards, and the location of utilities, all of which can impact how firefighters operate during an incident.

Having a clear understanding of a building’s structure in advance allows fire officers to make informed decisions, assign tasks effectively, and anticipate challenges during an emergency. This preparation is especially helpful when responding to commercial properties that are unfamiliar to the crew.

The department expressed its appreciation to Downeast Performance Horses LLC for providing the training location and for supporting the session.

Dunn’s Corners Fire Department serves the communities in the Westerly and Charlestown areas, offering fire protection and other emergency services. Regular training helps firefighters maintain their skills and stay ready for a wide variety of incidents, including those that require specialized knowledge beyond regular fire response.