Union County Firefighter Completes Large Animal Emergency Training

Staff Report

A Union County firefighter has completed specialized training for emergencies involving horses and other large animals.

Firefighter Brooklyn Beaver finished the two-day Large Animal Emergency Response Awareness Course in Athens, the Union County Fire Department said.

The course trained first responders on incidents including livestock trailer accidents, barn fires, animals trapped in mud or water, and loose animals in roadways. Participants also learned specialized handling, containment and rescue techniques intended to improve safety for both responders and animals.

Large animal emergencies present unique challenges because traditional rescue methods may not always work, the department said. The training is meant to help firefighters understand animal behavior in stressful situations and give them additional tools for managing those calls.

“Training for these types of specialized emergencies helps our firefighters be prepared for whatever situation they may encounter,” Fire Chief David Dyer said. “Firefighter Beaver’s willingness to expand her knowledge and develop these skills is another example of our department’s commitment to providing a well-trained and capable response for our community.”

The department congratulated Beaver on completing the course and her continued professional development.