Columbus Division of Fire

In 2008, when fire inspectors mentioned the state of affairs during a routine visit, a local steel fabricator and galvanizer stepped up to help ensure the safety of the firefighters by donating their services. Over 25,000 lbs of steel railings, platforms, grating and tie off weldments provide a safe place for cadets to train.

"For the past 18 years, our department- comprised of roughly 1,650 firefighters- has relied on these props to train for high-rise operations, ladder operations, and a wide range of technical rescue scenarios"

The Columbus Division Fire Tower has withstood more than a decade of intense wear and tear in one of the most demanding training environments imaginable. Its continued performance is a powerful testament to the durability and long-term value of hot-dip galvanizing. Exposed daily to fire, heavy water flow, extreme temperature swings, snow, rain, and the relentless physical demands of firefighter training, the galvanized coating has demonstrated unmatched resilience. Since its refurbishment in 2008, the structure has required no additional maintenance, repairs, or steel replacement- a remarkable achievement given the tower’s constant, rigorous use. Year after year, cadets drag hoses across the railings, climb, descend, and apply significant physical force to every component of the structure. Yet the metallurgical zinc–steel bond created through hot-dip galvanizing continues to perform exactly as intended: resisting corrosion, absorbing impact, and providing a smooth, safe surface that minimizes risk to trainees. This reliability has allowed the Fire Academy to conduct uninterrupted training operations, ensuring that every new class of firefighters can practice essential skills in a safe, structurally sound environment. Nearly two decades later, with no evidence of corrosion- the Columbus Division Fire Tower will continue serving the Academy for decades to come, reinforcing the Academy’s mission of preparedness, safety, and service to the community.

Lieutenant Nicholas Davis says, "The Columbus Division of Fire extends its deepest appreciation to the galvanizer for their generous donation of more than 25,000 pounds of hot-dipped galvanized steel to our Training Academy. This remarkable contribution has played a vital role in shaping the training and preparedness of our firefighters. Because of your support, approximately 1,100 recruit firefighters have been able to complete their entry-level training using durable, high-quality training props built from your donation. Additionally, for the past 18 years, our department- comprised of roughly 1,650 firefighters- has relied on these props to train for high-rise operations, ladder operations, and a wide range of technical rescue scenarios. Your generosity has directly enhanced our readiness and strengthened our ability to respond to any emergency in order to better serve the citizens of Columbus. We look forward to utilizing this donation for many years to come and are proud to recognize the galvanizer as a true leader in our community. Your commitment to supporting public safety has made a lasting impact on our division and the city we serve."