144FW participates in joint training with Fresno emergency responders

FRESNO, Calif. -- U.S. Air Force firefighters assigned to the 144th Civil Engineer Squadron participated in the 2015 Fresno Yosemite International Airport Triennial Full-Scale Exercise May 13, 2015.

This joint exercise enabled the emergency responders to acquire Federal Aviation Administration re-certification for the continuation of airport operations.

Because of the joint exercise, 144th Airmen had the opportunity to interact with a variety of local agencies to include the Clovis and Fresno fire departments, Fresno Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting, Fresno Airport first responders, property management and emergency medical services.

The scenario for the exercise included a civilian aircraft and a civilian vehicle, which the firefighters had to assist passengers off of in a safe and timely manner.

"This joint exercise tested the capabilities of the different agencies and how well they all can work together," said Pete Martinez, Fresno Fire Department Public Information Officer.

Volunteers from the Fresno Community Emergency Response Team and the American Red Cross played the roles of passengers for the exercise.

"There were more than 40 simulated injured personnel who we had to treat and assist while trying to mitigate the hazard," Martinez said. "Having the live human players put a whole different dynamic to the training--it helped make the scenario more realistic."

Several Fresno fire department fire chiefs were observing and evaluating the exercise.

"It is an honor to able to participate in joint training exercises with the local agencies," said Chief Master Sgt. Derek Tisinger, 144th CES fire chief. "In a real-world situation, the 144th will respond to both civilian and military aircraft mishaps that take place at the [Fresno International] Airport and this type of joint training gives us the opportunity to work together prior to a real-world emergency."