Minot hosted the 72nd North Dakota State Fire School, drawing more than 870 firefighters from across the state to Minot for a weekend of hands-on training. The event, organized by the North Dakota Firefighters Association, began Feb. 26 and runs through March 1, with activities spread across city sites and the State Fair Center as well as rural and municipal stations. Association president Shawn Weltikol noted attendance has grown in recent years and that roughly 200 to 250 departments are represented. Participants enrolled in more than 50 classes, including certification testing on Sunday. Trainees practiced hose operations, extrication, ladder work and other essential skills, under experienced instructors. The statewide effort emphasizes collaboration among departments and ongoing professional development in a demanding, life-saving line of work. Local responders say the school standardizes procedures and shares best practices, improving public safety across rural and urban communities statewide today to stay informed, safe. For More Information https://www.minotdailynews.com/news/local-news/2026/02/firefighters-sharpen-skills-at-annual-training/
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