The Rancho Adobe Fire Protection District needed a training facility for the 35 member, 3 Department District that could withstand the abuse of a real life training exercise with with multiple scenarios. Thanks to hot-dip galvanized (HDG) steel, the props could be interchanged, stored and reinstalled with no worry of handling damage. Funds were limited through a federal grant so the cost effectiveness, both initial and life cycle cost was a critical factor for getting the most out of the training facility and meeting federal guidelines for sustainability.

The district needed a training facility that was durable enough to withstand heat, smoke and humidity. HDG has a proven track record of performance in each of these environments. The HDG coating is a metallurgical bond that is scratch resistant and harder than the steel itself, so installation and dismantling is quick and easy. The galvanizer worked with the manufacturer to design for proper venting, drainage and bolt together connections for interchangeable props. In order to qualify for a federal grant the facility had to have a life expectancy of 50 to 75 years of life, only HDG could meet this requirement.

The HDG structure could withstand temperature changes such as a hot smoke filled room suddenly cooled by the spray of a fire hose. Firefighters are subjected to hazardous conditions when they fight a real fire. It is important the training be as realistic as possible but be safe. HDG steel provides the element of safety and security by knowing the ladders and stairs are in tact and corrosion is not a concern.