Concord firefighters to conduct water tower rescue training through summer

CONCORD - Residents near Highway 73 may notice an increased fire department presence in the coming weeks, but officials say there is no cause for alarm.

The Concord Fire Department will begin a series of training exercises Monday, April 27, at the city's water tower near the intersection of Highway 73 and Kirkwood Drive. The sessions, scheduled periodically through early July, are part of the department's annual Technical Rescue Training Plan.

Fire crews will train from approximately 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on April 27, with additional exercises planned for May 4, May 13, June 1, June 16 and July 1.

The exercises are designed to help firefighters sharpen rope and high-angle rescue skills, which are used in situations involving elevated or hard-to-reach locations. Most of the training will take place inside the water tower, though residents may occasionally see activity outside if time and weather allow.

During those outdoor scenarios, firefighters may simulate lowering a victim from the top or side of the tower using specialized rope systems.

Officials said multiple fire apparatuses will be on-site during the exercises, which may draw attention from passersby.

Motorists traveling in the area are encouraged to keep traffic moving, and residents are reminded the activity is only a training exercise. Emergency services should be contacted only for actual life-threatening situations.

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