The first of a series of community engagement and emergency preparedness events occurred Sept. 14.

Members of Bedford Park Fire Department and Chicago Fire Department visited the Diesel Shop to receive an overview of locomotives. The goal was to help prepare the firefighters for battling blazes that involved a locomotive.  

Electrician Nate Smith led training, going over the external features of locomotive No. 561 and its cab. Field Team Leader Jason Charbonneau assisted, answering questions and offering insight. 

After exploring the locomotive, firefighters examined replica tank car top fittings and specialized firefighting equipment. An associate from Response Management Services, a Belt partner charged with emergency response, led that part of the training.