Southern Oregon University partners with first responders

ASHLAND, Ore. – Ashland’s first responders are taking a trip back to college this summer through a partnership with Southern Oregon University’s public safety to use a condemned building for training.

The region’s fire and rescue and police departments will use the site for building searches, tactical search and rescue, door and window breaking, ladder operations, and more.

The training will be held in the five-acre Cascade Complex and will continue until August 31.

The building is 57 years old and has been abandoned for over a decade. Its demolition is forecasted for 2025, with redevelopment following in mid-2025.

The university is considering a senior living facility in its place.

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Emily Storm is the Co-Anchor for NBC5 News at Sunrise. Born and raised in Minnesota, Emily studied at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities' Hubbard School of Journalism and Mass Communication, graduating in May of 2024 with a degree in Journalism. Emily was a Beat Reporter at RadioK's The Real College Podcast, interned at WCCO-TV and KSTP 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS in Minneapolis and was the President of the University of Minnesota's Quadball team (formerly known as Quidditch). Emily loves breakfast food, roller blading, writing poetry, board games and hanging out with friends. Emily continues to cheer for her major league Quadball teammates on the Minneapolis Monarchs.
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