Black Hills Energy to Host Live Fire Training for Volunteer Firefighters in Sterling
WICHITA, Kan. — Sept. 10, 2025 — Volunteer firefighters from across Kansas will gather in Sterling later this month for advanced natural gas fire safety training, hosted by Black Hills Energy.
The session begins at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 25, and will include classroom presentations on pipeline safety as well as live-fire, hands-on exercises. Firefighters will practice using water and dry chemical extinguishers to respond to simulated pipeline damage and other natural gas fire scenarios.
While natural gas is considered a safe and reliable energy source, Black Hills Energy officials emphasize the importance of preparation for rare but dangerous emergencies. The controlled training environment is designed to build confidence and sharpen response skills for both volunteer and full-time first responders.
“Events like these allow firefighters to experience the heat and intensity of natural gas-related incidents in a safe, guided setting,” Black Hills Energy said in a statement. “The goal is to strengthen emergency procedures that protect both responders and the communities they serve.”
The training will bring increased fire department personnel and equipment into Sterling. To accommodate the event, Monroe Street from 7th to 9th and 8th Street from Monroe to Main will be closed from 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Sept. 25. Residents may view portions of the live-fire demonstrations from a safe distance.
Black Hills Energy described the training as an essential opportunity to keep skills sharp for firefighters who may one day face natural gas emergencies. More information on natural gas safety is available at www.BlackHillsEnergy.com/safety.