On Monday night, August 27, 2007 members from all four companies of the Rye Fire Department converged on a 2-story wood-frame residential structure in Indian Village to find smoke showing from the second floor and the ominous glow of fire coming from within. Of course, the smoke and red glow were coming from flares that had been carefully placed in fire-proof containers within the soon-to-be-razed house. Members split into two-person teams to handle forcing entry, advancing a hoseline, venting from the exterior and also searching the structure for a small child reported to be still inside. This training scenario (or "evolution") was run 3 times, with members rotating between duties. While the Rye Fire Dept. is split into two Engine companies, a Ladder company and a Patrol company, special attention was paid to cross-training (Engine Co. members raising ladders, Ladder Co. members advancing hoselines, etc.) Members in attendance ranged in experience from 20+ years to "probies" (new firefighters). Many important lessons were learned and/or reinforced throughout the night.
