John Maxwell, with Lane Fire Authority was the primary instructor of the training. He said this weekend's training was the largest he has held in the four years he’s been instructing.  

Maxwell said more than two dozen paid and volunteer firefighters from eight different departments throughout the state participated in the two-day training. During the training, firefighters were able to get hands on experience using the aerial apparatus which is a fire truck with a hydraulic ladder that has a hose installed in it.

Campbell firefighters said a new truck is a necessity.

"The truck is worn out. We've kept it in service for a really long time. The national recommendation is for 20 years of life for a truck and we've used it for 36 years, so we've exceeded the service life. It's become unsafe, it's become unreliable, and we need a better piece of equipment to protect our town," said Campbell Fire Chief Nate Melby.

To fight these statistics, the East Montgomery County Fire Department recently installed its first of two Chemical Detox Infrared Saunas which work to reduce cancer risks associated with firefighters.  

The first sauna was installed at Station 151 and plans are in place to purchase a second sauna for Station 155, thanks to monies given by their Emergency Services District (ESD) board.

Station 9 of the Amarillo Fire Department is relocating to a brand new home.  

“There were some calls that we were not able to reach in our target times over in the northern area,” said Sam Baucom, Deputy Fire Chief with the Amarillo Fire Department. “This was one of the optimal locations for a new fire station or relocation."

The station, one of the oldest in the city with outdated systems and structures, will be moving from 34th and Western to a brand new spot near Paramount and I-40, thanks to a unanimous vote by the city council.

Officials say a 59-year-old driver from Grand Rapids had repeatedly crashed his vehicle into the bay doors of the fire station, causing damage to the building and the two vehicles inside the garage.  

The man was rushed to Bronson Hosptial where he is being treated but the reason for the incident is still unknown.