Salisbury Firefighters train in old university building

SALISBURY, Md. — Fire can strike without warning, and the Salisbury Fire Department is working to stay prepared — including at local schools.

This week, firefighters trained inside an old Salisbury University–owned building slated for demolition. Crews practiced search techniques, rapid-intervention skills and basement operations — procedures they say can save lives when seconds matter.

Salisbury University offered access to the vacant structure to the fire department. The building, along with several nearby properties, was purchased by the SU Foundation in 2017 and currently has no redevelopment plans.

“The fire department came and trained on search activities and rapid intervention, basement operations — that helps keep the entire community safe, and in return the university is not exempt from emergencies,” said Jason Rhodes of Salisbury University.

Officials say exercises like this help strengthen partnerships between first responders and the community they serve.