Published on April 24, 2026 4:54 pm
Last Updated on April 24, 2026 4:54 pm
A ribbon cutting ceremony was held Friday to mark the opening of the Effingham Fire Training Center.
The facility, located just off Eiche Avenue, replaces the original smaller center and will be made available not only to the Effingham Fire Department but to area fire departments. Effingham Fire Chief Brant Yochum said that will be beneficial since fire companies often fight fires together, so can train together.
(EFFINGHAM FIRE CHIEF BRANT YOCHUM)
Yochum credited many people for their help with the facility, including Mayor Mike Schutzbach and the City Council for budgeting for the project. He mentioned two members of the fire department, Jason Lee and Matt Carpenter, for their help in designing the center, and recognized Director of Public Works Jeremy Heuerman and public works staffers for their flexibility in helping get materials to the site to facilitate construction.
(THE NEW EFFINGHAM FIRE TRAINING CENTER)
The building will quickly be put to use, with Yochum saying that training is scheduled for Monday.
The Effingham department is also working toward delivery of a new ladder truck. Yochum said the equipment and training are keys to Effingham earning an ISO rating of 2, meaning lower insurance rates for Effingham.
