Chicago Rescue Team Trains for Emergencies

Firefighters and marines held exercises how to provide assistance and operate in Chicago in case of chemical and biological incidents.

The exercises were held for the firefighters from the Chicago Fire Department and marines from United States Marine Corps. Specialists trained a course of actions in different types of emergencies. Fortunately, Chicago firemen and marines have never been in such situations before, but they should be ready for any unexpected situation.

The rescue training took part in the abandoned old post office on Wednesday. Illinois Fire Service Institute also joined it. Marines shared their experience of working in chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear zones. They learned how to cooperate with the firefighters, share duties and coordinate their actions. Illinois and federal departments worked as one team, this was the main goal of the initiative.

During the rescue training, participants recreated extreme situations and got new problem-solving practical experience. “Hopefully, we never need the Marines to come here and bail us out, but we have to prepare every day like we are going to do that,” said Chief Timothy Walsh of the Chicago Fire Department.