The Mandan Fire Department is set to conduct realistic training exercises inside the old Mandan High School this fall, preparing crews for future emergencies.
As the old Mandan High School awaits redevelopment, the vacant building has been approved as a temporary site for advanced firefighter training. Officials say the opportunity is rare: most fire drills take place in controlled training towers, but this gives crews a chance to work in a real multi-story structure.
The training will focus on search-and-rescue, fire suppression, and ventilation techniques. Fire officials emphasize that no live flames will be used, ensuring safety while still providing authentic scenarios.
For Bismarck–Mandan residents, this training means better-prepared emergency responders. With aging infrastructure and larger public buildings across the region, firefighters will now have firsthand experience navigating hallways, stairwells, and classroom layouts similar to those found in schools, offices, and apartments.
City officials also noted that residents shouldn’t be alarmed if they see fire trucks or crews at the site—this is a scheduled, controlled exercise.
Mandan resident and parent, Lisa Becker, shared her perspective: “Knowing they’re training in a school setting is reassuring. It feels like our community is taking proactive steps to protect students and families.”
The old Mandan High School’s final chapter before redevelopment will serve the community in a vital way—helping train the next generation of firefighters. As officials emphasize, the drills are not only about practice but also about ensuring Bismarck-Mandan remains prepared for emergencies of any scale.
