AEP Texas recently hosted more than 30 Corpus Christi firefighters for elevator rescue training at its Corpus Christi Home Office and company headquarters. Over three nights, members of two Corpus Christi Fire Department specialty rescue companies used newly acquired equipment in hands-on exercises designed to prepare them for elevator emergencies, including stalled cars and power failures.

During the training, firefighters practiced disabling elevator motors, installing rescue pulleys, securing elevator cars and opening doors with a rescue tool known as a “drop key.” Fire officials said the experience helps first responders become familiar with local building systems and better prepared for real-life emergencies. AEP Texas employee Deirdre Champion also volunteered during a live rescue exercise, noting the value of seeing local first responders train on the building’s equipment firsthand.