RTA provides training on trolley bus safety for first-responders

For Immediate Release

MEDIA CONTACT:  Jessica Olson (937) 425-8352, Communications Manager

How to Go:
Date/Time:  Tuesday, March 16, 2021 at 12 p.m.
Place:  Howell Rescue Systems, 2673 Culver Ave. Kettering, Oh 45429

An RTA trainer will be on-site for media interviews beginning at 12 p.m.  

(DAYTON, OHIO)… Emergency first-responders will receive valuable hands-on training with Greater Dayton RTA experts on how to rescue passengers in the event of an accident involving an electric trolley bus during a specialized session at Howell Rescue Systems in Kettering on Tuesday, March 16, beginning at noon. The media is invited to attend this training. 

The RTA regularly works with first-responders on bus safety, and as one of only 5 bus systems in the United States to use electric trolley buses, the agency provides a unique opportunity to teach emergency workers how to work around these electrical systems in the case of an emergency. The RTA also regularly donates retired buses to be used in these training exercises. 

The RTA believes this training can help save lives in the event of an emergency, said Bob Ruzinsky, RTA Deputy CEO. 

“While we never want any of our vehicles to be involved in a crash, preparation is key for a good outcome in these worst-case scenarios,” Ruzinsky said. “The RTA works to partner with area fire departments, first responders, and training centers like Calamityville in Fairborn to provide this valuable training to keep the public, our riders, and first-responders safe in the event of an accident.” 

On Tuesday, area firefighters will have the opportunity to train with RTA Maintenance Training Supervisor Matt Hempstead on the agency’s newest electric trolley, the NexGen. Attendees will learn first-hand about battery disconnect procedures, access points, and get overall vehicle familiarization, with access the top of the trolley where the vehicle’s poles connect to overhead electric wires. The media will have the opportunity to interview Hempstead as well as get footage of the training.