Firefighters from Fort Madison and Keokuk Train for Hazardous Materials Incidents

The Lee County HazMat team conducted a specialized two-day training exercise focused on propane bobtail truck scenarios.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 3:23pm

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A grid of brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen images of a firefighter's helmet, rendered in a bold, pop art style that captures the essential tools and skills of first responders.A vibrant celebration of the specialized training and preparedness of local firefighters who stand ready to respond to hazardous materials emergencies.Burlington Today

Firefighters from the Fort Madison and Keokuk fire departments, who make up the Lee County HazMat team, recently participated in a specialized two-day training exercise focused on responding to hazardous materials incidents involving propane bobtail trucks. The training included live fire simulations and practice shutting off valves and deploying charged hose lines.

Why it matters

Hazardous materials incidents can pose significant risks to public safety, so regular training is critical for first responders to maintain their skills and preparedness. The Lee County HazMat team's joint training helps ensure the two departments can effectively coordinate and respond to these types of emergencies.

The details

During the training, firefighters practiced responding to a simulated propane bobtail truck fire, learning how to safely shut off valves and deploy charged hose lines. The training was led by Fort Madison Fire Department Capt. Neal Gathers and Lt. Drew Weisinger, who serve as training officers. The Burlington Fire HazMat team also participated on the first day of the training, which took place at a facility off 53rd Street.

  • The training exercise was held late last week.

The players

Neal Gathers

Captain at the Fort Madison Fire Department and a training officer for the Lee County HazMat team.

Drew Weisinger

Lieutenant at the Fort Madison Fire Department and a training officer for the Lee County HazMat team.

Lee County HazMat team

A joint hazardous materials response team made up of firefighters from the Fort Madison and Keokuk fire departments.

Burlington Fire HazMat team

A hazardous materials response team from the Burlington Fire Department that participated in the first day of the training.

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The takeaway

This joint training exercise demonstrates the importance of collaboration and preparedness among first responders when it comes to handling hazardous materials incidents. The Lee County HazMat team's efforts to maintain their skills and coordinate across departments help ensure the community is well-protected in the event of an emergency.