CARLISLE, Pa. (WHTM) — A controlled burn and training exercise took place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday in Cumberland County.

“You have to practice for the conditions to expect the unexpected,” said Citizen’s Fire Company Assistant Fire Chief Barry Shughart.

45 firefighters from Union Fire Company, Carlisle Fire and Rescue Services, and Citizen’s Fire Company in Mount Holly Springs participated in the training.

The South Middleton Township Emergency Management Administration, in cooperation with township fire chiefs, scheduled the burn to take place at 15 and 17 Robin Drive in Carlisle. Robin Drive and the western entrance to Spring Gardens Estates will be impacted during the exercise.

As part of the exercise, 17 Robin Drive will be set on fire to enable firefighters and personnel to experience real structure fire conditions while being in a controlled environment.

“We don’t get this kind of training very often where we can go in a live fire, especially with younger, younger firefighters that are moving up through. They’ve never experienced it,” said Emergency Management Administrator Ronald Hamilton.

Officials say this type of training is essential so firefighters know how to battle the mixture of fire, heat, and smoke while keeping themselves and the community safe.

Residents should be able to access their homes at all times.

Public safety officials will be on hand throughout the training to ensure the safety and security of those involved in the exercise and surrounding structures.

Any questions on the controlled burn/fire training exercise should be directed to the Township’s Emergency Management Office.