Training and tactics

When they’re not putting out fires or responding to medical emergencies, firefighters are training for both.

So when representatives told the Costa Mesa Fire Department they were planning on demolishing an old administrative building Monday, firefighters jumped at the chance to take a hack at it first, literally.

Firefighters practiced their ventilation tactics — where they cut holes in the building roof to release heat, smoke and flames — Friday morning at the fairgrounds.

Battalion Chief Scott Broussard said the training is also being filmed for a film company making firefighting training videos for distribution. Once the building is demolished Monday, officials said, the wood will be sent down to Mexico to build homes. Windows and other paneling has been donated to Habitat for Humanity, fairground officials said.

— Joseph Serna