Over 700 Firefighters In Tulsa For Helicopter Training

More than 700 firefighters from across the country are in town this weekend for extra training on how to save lives.

05/04/2018 Related Story: Firefighters Gather In Tulsa For Special Training

During training, firefighters work through different exercises and scenarios. 

On Saturday, crews took part in a helicopter rescue operation drill.

"It's been phenomenal. Everyone's doing a great job," said Rescue Coordinator Terry Sivadon. 

"The helicopter goes out they lower someone down and are able to rescue them and get them out," said Tulsa Firefighter Andrew Little. "It’s about $500 per person and the attendees don't have to pay anything. So, it’s a unique wonderful chance for people to come and learn and improve their craft."

"A lot of people traveled in and are learning a lot," said Sivadon. 

Firefighters said the department has a special unit of people who have the capability to rescue people in places that are normally hard to reach.

"This is new to us. We've been practicing for about 4 months now and we're just about to go operational at the end of the month," Sivadon said. 

From helicopter drills to Hazmat training, to swift water rescues, Sivadon said the Tulsa Fire Department has one goal in mind.

"We're trained up with the army national guard, and hopefully do some good for the states and the surrounding states on performing these rescues," he said. 

Sunday is the last day of training. Firefighters will work through what to do in the event of a natural disaster.