Friday, Bakersfield Fire Department recruits went through trench rescue training. They are currently in the middle of a 23-week academy. Fire officials said trenches are extremely dangerous and often kill the victim, as well as people who are not trained and try to help with the rescue. Battalion Chief Bill Ballard said although a trench rescue does not happen often, it is very high-risk. Instructors trained the newest firefighters with a trench rescue drill to ensure they are aware of the trench hazards and rescue techniques. There are 13 people in the current Bakersfield Fire Department recruit academy. All new Bakersfield firefighters go through trench rescue training.