I.F. technical rescue team takes advantage of demolition project

Idaho Falls — The old Broadway Ford building will be the site for the Idaho Falls Fire Department’s (IFFD) Urban Search & Rescue (USAR) training drill tonight from 5-9 p.m. at 980 W. Broadway St.

USAR is a program administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and involves the location, rescue and stabilization of victims trapped in confined spaces. The program prepares first responders on various emergencies or disasters including earthquakes, storms, floods, dam failures and hazardous material releases. Over the past couple of days, pre-planting objects have been placed throughout the empty building in preparation for the drill. After the demolition crew brings down the building upon the objects, the IFFD’s Technical Rescue Team will attempt to locate and “rescue” the objects.

“We are very pleased that the owners of Broadway Ford could make this building available for such a unique training opportunity,” Hanneman said. “We would also like to thank TMC Contractors and Morgan Construction for allowing us access to the building for fire training over the last couple of weeks.”