Oct 24, 2009 - 01:00 PM

By Jillian Follert

DURHAM -- No training exercise can truly replicate the experience of battling a raging fire, but the cutting-edge equipment Durham College students and firefighters from Oshawa, Whitby and Clarington will soon be using comes close.

This week, local firefighters, politicians and college officials gathered at the Oshawa Airport to unveil a new training unit that uses propane to simulate actual fire conditions. The high-tech steel trailer was purchased through a partnership between the three municipalities -- which received provincial grants to cover their share -- and Durham College.

"It is so important for us all to have live training," said Oshawa Fire Chief Steve Meringer, who spoke on behalf of the three fire chiefs.

He said Oshawa firefighters haven't had that opportunity in over a year after their previous training site on Colonel Sam Drive was shut down.

"The great thing about this unit is that it's very safe, the whole thing can be shut down with the touch of a button. And, it's environmentally friendly too," Chief Meringer added.â?¨ The Oshawa chief said older firefighters remember the days when tires and wood were burned to simulate real fire conditions. He said propane is a much safer and greener option.

The training unit is outfitted with two propane props, a kitchen and a bedroom, with fire simulators that can be controlled from an exterior panel or a wireless remote. Its walls, ceilings and doors are insulated to withstand temperatures of up to 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit.

Chief Meringer said firefighters and students will be able to practise fire-suppression tactics, confined-space rescues, basement fire techniques and "flashover" strategies.

A flashover is when all the contents of a room suddenly ignite at once.

"It's very, very dangerous. You need to be able to recognize the signs before it happens," Chief Meringer said. "If you know in time, you can either delay it from happening or have time to get out, but you only have seconds to act."â?¨ The mayors of Whitby, Oshawa and Clarington heralded the teamwork approach to buying the simulator, saying everyone benefits when municipalities pool their resources.

"Not only is this an example of a successful partnership, it opens the doors for further exchange and opportunities to share and collectively improve the quality of service to our communities," said Oshawa Mayor John Gray.