Selected News
The MiLL National Training Center in Widefield School District 3 and the Colorado Springs Fire Department (CSFD) are proud to announce a collaborative partnership to develop ignition resistant construction props designed to improve fire safety in the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI).
This initiative aims to use existing fire mitigation strategies, specifically in the area of home hardening, to demonstrate the need for building materials that resist heat, flame, and embers.
As wildfires continue to pose significant threats to communities across the region, CSFD and The MiLL are committed to advancing fire prevention measures through the design and construction of props that showcase best practices in fire-resistant materials. Over the course of several months. MiLL students will apply their learning in the skilled trades to build four props. These props will use materials that range from non-compliant to exemplar, in order to educate builders, homeowners, and communities on how to reduce fire risks in vulnerable areas.
“The MiLL is excited to be sharing the responsibility. Our students will be working in the construction industry, and using these materials to build homes. This partnership will allow the students to practice and learn the best methods for keeping communities safe,” said Kathleen Mena, MiLL Operations Manager.
Through this partnership, CSFD and The MiLL are setting a precedent for proactive measures in fire safety and prevention. Together, they aim to inspire builders and residents to adopt best practices that protect lives and property in the face of increasing wildfire risks.
“The Colorado Springs Fire Department is excited to enter into this new partnership with the MiLL,” said Kris Cooper, Deputy Fire Marshal, CSFD. “As we educate the students and the future of the construction industry in fire safe construction practices, through the collaboration of this project, the students in turn will help us educate current trade professionals and the public on the importance of ignition resistant construction and wildfire mitigation practices. As we support them in their programs, they support us in efforts to ensure the safety of our citizens against the ever present threat of wildfire.”