Charlotte Firefighters Set to Burn Houses

Jan. 24, 2007
Various scenarios will be established for firefighters to practice their skills.

Charlotte firefighters are burning down 80 homes in the next 30 days, as part of a massive training effort.

The developer turned-over all 80 dilapidated homes at the Westwood Apartment complex to the Charlotte Fire Department. They're located on Freedom Drive near Berryhill in West Charlotte.

Captain Shawn Royall says the effort gives the department the ability to run all its 1000 members through training, "We're running some scenarios where guys can put fires out. We're also doing other scenarios where we cut roofs, practice ventilation, and simulate searches."

The developer saved thousands in demolition costs by giving the project to the fire department.

The fire department will work on two homes a day for the next month and a half, and will finish the demolition by March 9.

Developers hope to break ground for a residential development by the end of the year.

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