(Spirit Lake)– Over 200 emergency response personnel from Dickinson and Osceola counties participated in a unique training exercise Monday evening.
It took place on the “Spirit of The Lakes” passenger train, which runs through the two counties. It operates on track owned by the Iowa-Northwestern Railroad based out of Omaha.
Officials got a tour of the train and learned of the potential hazards associated with railroading, along with safety precautions that are exercised.
The event was coordinated by the Dickinson and Osceola county Emergency Management Agencies. Officials say it’s the first time the two counties have been involved in a joint exercise.
Family members of emergency response personnel rode the train for a reduced fare as the railroad’s way of thanking firefighters, law enforcement, E-M-T’s and others for the services they provide to the communities.
