WATERTOWN, New York (WWNY) - Firefighters use axes and hoses when battling blazes. But on Wednesday, we found Watertown firefighters using drills and saws.

They were learning to build support walls in case they are needed at a fire scene. It was part of structural collapse training.

“By doing this, we can support that building, it buys us some time to do rescue operations, and allows the homeowner ultimately to make decisions on if the home can be repaired or not,” said Watertown Fire Chief Matt Timerman.

“The number of firefighters across the state that are actually trained in these specialties, it’s not a lot. It tends to be your larger municipalities. We’re just grateful that Watertown is willing to participate in this kind of training. Again, it’s very specialized training,” said Pa

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