White County Firefighters Train in Maze Trailer

White County firefighters are getting a rare chance this week to step into one of the most challenging training environments they’ll face — without ever seeing a flame.

The Maze Trailer, currently set up at the Doyle Fire Department, is offering hands-on training designed to simulate the conditions firefighters encounter inside a structure fire. There’s no heat, no smoke — but there is complete darkness, tight spaces, and a long list of obstacles that force firefighters to rely on training, instinct, and muscle memory.

Originally designed by Sparta firefighter Barry Brady, the trailer is built to replicate the unpredictable and often dangerous layout of a fire scene. Inside, firefighters must navigate around wall studs, crawl through areas where ceilings have collapsed, work past hanging wires, and deal with sudden drops where floors could have given way. In some sections, they’re even required to pull themselves up to another level — simulating situations where stairways are no longer an option.

And all of it is done in total darkness.

In some scenarios, firefighters are also tasked with locating simulated victims, adding another layer of pressure to an already disorienting environment.

The Maze Trailer travels across Tennessee, giving departments the opportunity to train in a controlled but realistic setting. Because of its demand statewide, White County typically only gets access about once a year — and sometimes even less frequently depending on scheduling.

That demand may soon ease. According to Central View Volunteer Fire Department Chief Thomas Steele, a second trailer is currently in the works to help meet the growing need for this type of training.

Several local firefighters began working through the simulator on Sunday, but there are still opportunities this week for others to take advantage.

Training sessions are open from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday and again on Thursday at the Doyle Fire Department, with all White County firefighters invited to participate.

It’s a chance to prepare for the worst — in a setting where mistakes can be made, lessons can be learned, and experience can be gained before it matters most.