While often times during training firefighters literally put their skills to the test. However, you are still dealing with fire, which with one wrong move can quickly get out of control. Such was the case this week in Illinois, when a training exercise turned into a real emergency.
The Taylorville Fire Department was conducted a routine training exercise, when the fire that was intentionally set started to spread. The rapidly moving flames ended up burning down the old Taylor Country Club, located at 2021 Lincoln Trail. Luckily the fire was ultimately put out and there were no injuries sustained.
According to Taylorville Assistant Fire Chief Mike Crews, the small fire began in a corner of the building and 12 trainees were instructed to extinguish it. However, in less than sixty seconds, the fire had spread and the entire 5,000 square foot building went down in flames. It is highly likely that the fire spread due to a combination of high winds and the aged building being constructed out of old, dry wood.
The club, which while it was opened was hailed as one of the best country clubs, closed its doors a few years back. However, the golf course on the property is still operational but luckily it was too dark for anyone to be playing.