In response to an increase in fatalities at air shows nationwide, the Hollister Municipal Airport on Monday held training for firefighters in advance of the Hollister Airshow held Memorial Day weekend.
The airport brought together its own staff along with crews from the Hollister and San Juan Bautista fire departments to learn the best ways to respond, such as where to spray water and cut open damaged aircraft.
Airport Director Mike Chambless pointed out there were three fatalities at air shows, and he wants to keep the local event, in its third year, as safe as possible.
Capt. Dave Cruz and Engineer Robert Klemek from the Monterey Fire Department gave an overview to local firefighters on response practices, such as engine types and the differences in types of fuel and why Avfuel is the most flammable.
They also discussed the layout of the airport and safe practices for how to get around.
After the talk, local firefighters moved to an area of the airport where a mock crashed aircraft had been set up for practice, and firefighters sprayed it down.
