Manufacturer donates tank car for first responder training

Union Tank Car Company (UTLX), a manufacturer of rail tank cars, recently donated a tank car to the Calumet City public safety training center in the Chicago area to support hands-on training for the Chicago Fire Department, Calumet City Fire Department, and nearby municipalities.

The official handover of the tank car, which is 43 ft. long, 15 ft. high, and weighs 61,100 lbs., is set for Dec. 8 at the training center in Calumet City, a suburb of Chicago. The tank car will become a permanent asset at the center, ensuring first responders are better prepared for emergency responses involving rail tank cars and hazardous materials, Union Tank Car reported.

“Rail incidents are complex, and firefighters need to understand the real hazards they’ll face in the field,” Lt. Matt Drew of the Chicago Fire Department said in a news release. “This rail tank car gives us the ability to practice safe, methodical response techniques before we ever encounter a true emergency, which ultimately protects both our firefighters and the community.”

Headquartered in Chicago along with its parent company, Marmon Holdings, UTLX recognizes the vital role first responders play in protecting the public and responding to rail-related incidents.

“This rail tank car donation will provide invaluable hands-on training opportunities for Chicagoland firefighters and emergency personnel,” said Neil Finn, UTLX president. “We’re proud to support the fire department as they prepare to respond safely and effectively to real-world scenarios involving rail tank cars.”