training exercise

Residents of the Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM), particularly those in the Herring Cove area, are being advised of nighttime helicopter firefighter training this week.

The training will take place at the Naval Fleet School Atlantic’s Damage Control Division in Herring Cove, off John Brackett Drive, on Thursday, July 16, from 8:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.

Royal Canadian Navy officials say the exercises are held twice a year as part of the Damage Control Division’s broader training program, helping ensure Canadian Armed Forces members are prepared to respond to fires aboard ships and aircraft after dark.

They note that flames from the helicopter firefighting training may be visible to nearby residents and boaters along the coast. While the flames may appear large, officials stress they will be fully controlled and monitored by on-site safety teams.

Navy officials add that local emergency services, including 9-1-1 operations, will not be affected by the training. They also apologize for any inconvenience caused to residents and motorists in the area.