Athol, Mass.—October 11— The Athol Fire Department, located at 2251 Main Street, conducted a nighttime aerial operations training exercise to ensure Ladder 1 crews remain proficient under all conditions. Shift 2 firefighters practiced apparatus positioning, ladder extension, and roof-access maneuvers in low-light environments.

The department emphasized that aerial ladders are vital for safe roof ventilation, upper-floor rescues, and defensive fire operations. Training under darkness helps firefighters replicate real-world situations where visibility is limited and precision is critical.