Troy Fire Department Utilizing Vacant Buildings for Innovative Firefighter Training

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 12, 2025

Troy Fire Department Utilizing Vacant Buildings for

Innovative Firefighter Training

(TROY, NY) - The City of Troy is putting vacant, city-owned buildings to good use -transforming them into valuable training sites for the Troy Fire Department's newest recruits. This creative initiative provides firefighters with hands-on, real-world experience while the city continues its ongoing efforts to reduce the number of vacant buildings through redevelopment and revitalization.

By using these properties before demolition or rehabilitation, the Fire Department can safely conduct realistic drills in actual building environments, including exercises in search and rescue, ventilation, and structural navigation. The approach allows new recruits to experience conditions that closely mirror real emergency situations - preparing them to better protect Troy's residents and neighborhoods.

Mayor Carmella R. Mantello commended the Fire Department's forward-thinking approach saying, "While we continue to reduce the number of vacant buildings across Troy, this is a smart, adaptive, and efficient way to utilize those properties in the meantime. It's a win-win for the city - we're preparing our firefighters with critical, real-life training while maximizing use of city resources. This initiative reflects the innovation and teamwork that's driving Troy forward."

Fire Chief Rich Cellucci emphasized the benefits for the department's members saying, "This type of hands-on training is invaluable. It gives our firefighters - especially our newest recruits - the opportunity to practice their skills in real-world settings that can't be replicated in a classroom or controlled facility. These experiences make our department stronger and our city safer."

The Troy Fire Department works closely with the City's Code Enforcement and Building Departments to ensure all safety protocols are followed during training exercises. Once training is complete, the properties proceed through the city's established redevelopment or demolition process as part of Troy's broader revitalization strategy.

This initiative showcases the City of Troy's commitment to innovation, resourcefulness, and public safety - transforming vacant structures into learning opportunities that strengthen the entire community

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