SSWD Opens Vacant Buildings for Rare Firefighter Training Before Demolition by Sacramento Suburban Water District Jul 20, 2026 Member Submitted News SACRAMENTO – Before demolishing two vacant District-owned buildings, Sacramento Suburban Water District (SSWD) partnered with the Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District (Metro Fire) to transform the site into a unique hands-on training environment for firefighters. The buildings provided Metro Fire crews with the opportunity to practice critical emergency response skills in actual structures. Over multiple training sessions, firefighters conducted search-and-rescue operations in smoke-filled conditions, practiced forcible entry through security bars, performed rooftop ventilation cuts, established water supplies from nearby fire hydrants, and simulated fire suppression under realistic conditions. Metro Fire first approached SSWD in March 2026, seeking permission to use the boarded-up site for non-destructive structure-fire drills. SSWD agreed and coordinated site access, hydrant availability, security, and staff support. Metro Fire conducted an initial multi-company drill in April. Both agencies then began planning more advanced, destructive training once asbestos abatement was complete and the buildings were cleared for use. “Our partnership with Metro Fire is one of our critical relationships,” said SSWD General Manager Dan York. “SSWD works with Metro Fire to maintain and provide water service to over 6,500 fire hydrants throughout our district. Being able to utilize these buildings to help in their training is another way we are working together to protect our community.” By making the property available to Metro Fire, SSWD helped firefighters gain experience in real-world incidents and put a public asset to productive community use. “Training in acquired structures gives our firefighters the opportunity to practice in conditions that closely resemble actual emergencies,” said Metro Fire Public Information Officer Captain Mark Nunez. “Every realistic training opportunity helps crews sharpen the skills they’ll rely on when someone calls 911.” Fire crews practiced search-and-rescue operations in smoke-filled conditions, forcible entry through security bars, roof operations, including vertical ventilation cuts, door breaches, and extinguishing fires under simulated fire conditions. The training provided fire crews with a rare opportunity to practice these realistic skills and techniques under conditions similar to those when a building is on fire. SSWD’s partnership with Metro Fire demonstrates how local public agencies work closely to strengthen emergency preparedness and protect the communities they serve, and how even an old, unused asset can be put to productive use before demolition.
