Nov. 1, 2017 – The Redlands Fire Department will conduct live fire training Nov. 4-7 at a vacant apartment complex scheduled for demolition near the intersection of Orange Street and Lugonia Avenue. 

Opportunities for safe and effective live fire training rarely present themselves. This training will allow firefighters to attack and suppress fires in a controlled educational environment. Cal Fire will also participate as well as provide personnel and equipment to assist in the training.  

The San Bernardino County Housing Authority has donated the vacant apartments to the Redlands Fire Department for fire department training prior to their complete demolition. The department has already begun training in the vacant buildings with live fire training scheduled to begin Saturday, Nov. 4, and continue from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Tuesday, Nov. 7.

For environmental, resident and firefighter safety, all hazardous materials, including asbestos, lead paint, carpet/padding and appliances is removed prior to any of the fire training. In addition, firefighters will use wood, hay and other common combustibles for the training fires. We do our utmost to make sure we have as little impact on the environment and community as possible. This training has been approved by South Coast Air Quality Management District.

What to expect: Delaware Avenue and East Sharon Road have already been closed at the entrance to the vacant properties. There will be no closures that would prevent or limit access to Lugonia Elementary School and no closures that impact the flow of traffic on either Orange Street or Lugonia Avenue. There will be smoke but it is not expected to impact the school or residents. Our intent is to burn only when the wind conditions will result in the least amount of impact to surrounding residents, schools and businesses.  

Residents with questions before, during or after the training are encouraged to contact one of the fire personnel at the training site or call the Redlands Fire Department Administration at (909) 798-7600.