The Ventura County Fire Department has announced the opening of its new Live Fire Training Complex in Camarillo, a purpose‑built facility designed to expand firefighter training capabilities across the region. The department will hold a ribbon‑cutting ceremony and public open house on June 24, 2026 at the Ventura County Fire Training Center on Durley Avenue, where community members and partner agencies will be invited to tour the new structures.
According to VCFD, the complex includes two multi‑story live‑fire buildings constructed to NFPA 1403 standards. Together, they provide more than 17,000 square feet of interior training space, over 8,000 square feet of exterior training areas, 32 configurable rooms, and approximately one‑half acre of concrete drill grounds. The site can support up to 50 firefighters training at the same time and nearly a dozen concurrent training evolutions.
Building A is designed for Class A live‑fire training using traditional fuel sources such as wood pallets. The three‑story structure contains 11 configurable rooms and supports realistic heat and smoke conditions for interior firefighting operations. Building B uses propane‑fueled fire systems to create controlled, repeatable fire scenarios. Its three‑story layout includes 21 configurable rooms and allows instructors to rapidly adjust fire behavior and training conditions.
The complex also features Ladder Land, a dedicated ladder‑training prop that allows firefighters to practice ladder placement, climbing, roof access, and rescue operations in a controlled environment. VCFD states that the new facilities will strengthen firefighter readiness, enhance multi‑agency coordination, and support advanced training for both new recruits and experienced personnel.
Guided tours of the new buildings will begin following the ribbon‑cutting ceremony. VCFD plans to release additional event details as the opening date approaches.
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Sources
- Ventura County Fire Department