As the region prepares for the summer fire season, Hayden Homes recently partnered with local fire departments in the Walla Walla area to support a unique hands-on live-fire training opportunity at the forthcoming Equinox community. 

Hayden Homes donated two abandoned structures located on the homebuilder’s future development site for controlled live-fire training exercises involving firefighters and volunteers from Walla Walla, College Place, and surrounding departments. The structures were scheduled for demolition as part of upcoming land development plans, creating an opportunity to repurpose the homes to help firefighters sharpen critical skills ahead of the fire season this summer. 

Over two days of training exercises in late May, teams of firefighters practiced real-world fire response scenarios in active burn conditions. Crews entered the structures through doors, windows, and roof access points to work on hose deployment, fire suppression techniques, navigation in low-visibility environments, and coordinated emergency response procedures.  

Altogether, the live-fire training opportunity provided hands-on experience for approximately 50 firefighters and trainees from across the region. 

“Live-fire training opportunities like this are invaluable for our firefighters,” said Fred Hector, Walla Walla Deputy Fire Chief. “It allows crews to safely train in conditions that closely replicate real emergencies while strengthening teamwork, communication, and confidence. Heading into fire season, this kind of real-world preparation is incredibly important for both new recruits and experienced firefighters alike.” 

The training directly benefited the local community and was offered at an especially meaningful time following one of the Walla Walla Fire Department’s largest recent trainee graduations. The two-day event provided essential live-environment experience for new recruits alongside veteran firefighters and instructors as departments prepare for increased seasonal demand. 

“This was an incredible opportunity to support the departments that work every day to protect our community,” said Erica Nelson, Land Manager for Hayden Homes in Walla Walla. “These structures needed to be removed as part of future development plans, and being able to turn that process into meaningful hands-on training for local firefighters ahead of fire season made it even more impactful. It was a true community partnership.” 

Alongside the training exercises, Hayden Homes also partnered with Hot Mama’s Espresso, a locally owned coffee shop with ties to the volunteer firefighting community. Hayden Homes sponsored complimentary drinks and meals for firefighters and trainees participating in the burns. 

The collaboration reflects Hayden Homes’ ongoing commitment to supporting the communities where it builds, not only through housing, but also through partnerships that strengthen local services, organizations, and neighbors helping neighbors.