Local companies donated a railcar to Great Falls Fire Rescue that will enhance the department’s hazardous training programs.

The rail car donation, facilitated by Jimmy Filipowicz of Steel Etc.; Rhett Hulett of M and D Construction; Sletten Construction Company; and BNSF; marks a milestone in the department’s ongoing commitment to public safety and emergency preparedness.

GFFR conducting training at former Loading Zone

The advanced training tool will allow firefighters to simulate real-life scenarios involving rail car accidents, hazardous materials incidents, and complex rescue operations, according to GFFR.

The rail car was placed at GFFR’s training center at 1900 9th St. S. on Aug. 27.

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“This donation represents a critical investment in the safety of our community. Great Falls Fire Rescue would not be able to acquire a training prop like this on our own and we are grateful for the support and collaboration of these invested community partners. Our mission is to protect lives and property by delivering all hazards emergency services, and this donation helps us achieve that,” GFFR Chief Jeremy Jones said in a release.

GFFR and BNSF have ongoing communication involved training though that training doesn’t occur on a regularly scheduled basis, according to GFFR.

GFFR conducting high rise training

The city firefighters regularly trains with their mutual aid partners, including Malmstrom Air Force Base Fire Department, Montana Air National Guard Fire and surrounding volunteer fire departments.

The rail car prop will soon be a resources to expand and enhance training opportunities with those partners, according to GFFR.

Other agencies, such as the state Montana Fire Service Training School, can also request to use the facility and pay GFFR a fee for multi-day training programs.

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The tower at GFFR’s training center is condemned and has been unusable for years, limiting their training opportunities. The department has used city parking garages and other donated private structures whenever possible for more realistic training.

The department proposed a Montana Public Safety Development Center during the 2023 legislative session that passed through the Montana House of Representatives but died in the Senate Standing Committee in May 2023.

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“Great Falls Fire Rescue is committed to protecting lives and property through professional fire suppression, emergency medical services, preparedness and community education. With a team of highly trained firefighters and advanced equipment, the department works tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of our community,” according to GFFR.

To help raise funds for firefighting equipment and training, locals formed the Great Falls Fire-Rescue Foundation in 2022.

The foundation is currently seeking two new board members.

“The foundation raises essential funds to cover critical gaps in the department’s budget that are not met by taxpayer dollars, thereby playing a crucial role in enhancing public safety and ensuring the well-being of our community,” according to the foundation.

They’re particularly looking to recruit individuals with strong backgrounds in fundraising, marketing, and accounting to expand its outreach efforts.

“We are looking for passionate individuals who can help us take the foundation to the next level,” Katie Brewer, the foundation’s spokeswoman, said in a release. “With the right expertise in fundraising, marketing, finance, and accounting, we can strengthen our support for the Great Falls Fire Rescue department and ensure that we have the resources to meet the needs of our community.”

Board members key responsibilities include:

• assisting in the development and execution of fundraising strategies
• leading marketing efforts to increase the foundation’s visibility and engagement
• providing financial oversight and guidance to ensure sound fiscal management
• participating in regular board meetings and special events
• contributing to strategic planning and decision-making processes

Those interested in serving as a board member can apply online on the foundation website by Sept. 30.