North East Township, PA – Last night, under the heat of a mid-summer evening, firefighters from Crescent Hose Company and Fuller Hose Company came together for a joint training exercise at their shared Home for Fire and Rescue Training, located at Gravel Pit Park in North East. Despite the high temperatures and humid conditions, the crews pushed forward with a series of live fire training evolutions, a decision rooted in a clear operational reality: when the alarm sounds, firefighters must be prepared to perform in any condition, whether it’s a bitter winter night or a sweltering summer afternoon. Training in realistic, adverse environments like this offers valuable experience in a safe, controlled setting.

Throughout the evening, firefighters completed two training evolutions. The first simulated a fire on the first floor of the live fire training structure, while the second involved a fire scenario on the second floor. Each evolution included varying fire conditions to create realistic and challenging training environments. Each scenario was designed to challenge crews with complex tasks including primary and secondary searches, hose line deployments and advancements, fire suppression tactics, and interior coordination under simulated heat and smoke conditions.

The training also served as a critical development opportunity for some of the department’s newest members, many of whom are early in their fire service careers. These firefighters gained hands-on experience while operating alongside seasoned veterans who provided guidance, mentorship, and leadership throughout the evening. The teamwork on display exemplified the strong partnership and shared commitment to excellence that exists between the two departments, highlighting their unified approach to public safety and professional development.

The construction of this facility is the result of a recent collaborative effort. In response to the increasingly complex demands of public safety, North East Borough and North East Township took a proactive approach to fire protection and emergency preparedness. During the COVID-19 pandemic, both municipalities began open and consistent dialogue with Crescent Hose Company and Fuller Hose Company. These early discussions developed into regular monthly meetings and ultimately led to the formation of the North East Public Safety Advisory Board.

When American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding became available, with specific requirements for how the funds could be spent, the board quickly identified a shared priority of enhancing firefighter training capabilities. The solution was clear: a dedicated live fire training facility that would prepare local firefighters to better protect lives and property. Upon learning of the project, Greenfield Township Volunteer Fire Company and Greenfield Township expressed interest in participating and were welcomed as partners.

A joint committee, representing all involved departments, was formed to research and develop the initiative. In 2020, the committee signed a contract with Howell Rescue Systems for the construction of a live fire training structure utilizing modified shipping containers. The system, manufactured by Draeger, Inc., was installed in the fall of 2021 at Gravel Pit Park, located at 10300 West Main Road, the site of the North East Township municipal building.

Since its completion, the facility has become a vital regional asset, routinely used for a variety of training programs, including Essentials of Firefighting, as well as Basic and Heavy Vehicle Rescue. The facility has delivered measurable benefits by enhancing firefighters’ skills and effectiveness during real-world fire responses. Additionally, the surrounding community has benefited from the facility’s presence through improvements in the ISO certification process, which can positively impact insurance ratings and overall public safety. The success of this initiative would not be possible without the support of dedicated community partners, including 4 NINE Thrift Store, Stetson Brothers Ace Hardware, the North East Lions Club, and the leadership of North East Borough and North East Township.


While I typically focus on events involving West County departments, I recently had the opportunity to cover a live fire training exercise in East County. I was invited to document the training firsthand, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the intense preparation our firefighters undergo. It’s a strong reminder that all of our volunteer fire departments, no matter where they’re located, are equally important in protecting our communities. Watching the training unfold, it was impressive to see the structure, coordination, and realism of the evolutions.