Norfolk Southern to open new first responder training facility in Ohio
Ohio - Norfolk Southern announced Wednesday that it will create a new regional training center in Ohio for first responders.
The rail company also announced that it will expand its Operations Awareness and Response program, which travels the company's 22 state network and trains first responders on how to respond safely to rain incidents.
The site of the training center has not yet been selected, and Norfolk Southern plans to partner with community leaders to choose a location for the new facility. The center will provide free training for first responders from Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia and the greater region. It will strengthen coordination between railroads and first responders in the event of an emergency response.
"The derailment in East Palestine made clear that ensuring first responders are prepared for disasters involving hazardous materials is vitally important to the safety of communities," said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine.
While the location for the dedicated facility is selected, training classes will commence on March 22 at Norfolk Southern's yard in Bellevue, Ohio.
Norfolk Southern is also expanding its OAR program, which provides training to approximately 5,000 first responders annually. In 2023, the program will make 12 stops, with four to be scheduled in Ohio.
