Chesapeake Utilities Corporation Opens Florida Safety Training Facility

DOVER, Del. (Feb. 27, 2025) — Chesapeake Utilities Corporation opened its second Safety Town training facility with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in DeBary, Florida, on Thursday, Feb. 27. Chesapeake Utilities’ Florida Safety Town is a state-of-the-art facility that provides the company’s Florida operations teams with hands-on and classroom training, enabling collaboration with first responders and other community partners.

The 1-acre center was modeled after Chesapeake Utilities’ Safety Town training facility in Dover, Delaware, and features specialized learning environments, including simulations for hit line and gas leaks, service hook ups, utility locating, leak detection and corrosion monitoring. The facility houses technology-equipped training rooms, equipment and vehicle storage areas and multiple training houses that present various real-life safety scenarios.

“This facility underscores our dedication to safety, for our employees and the communities we serve across Florida. Safety Town’s specialized training environments provide invaluable, hands-on preparation for our team members and local first responders,” said Jeff Sylvester, senior vice president and chief operating officer. “It allows for seamless classroom instruction and the ability to practice skills immediately.”

The curriculum at Safety Town is designed to enhance technical expertise and emergency preparedness through comprehensive training programs, including:

• Emergency response coordination
• Main installation, repair and maintenance
• Underground utility line locating and excavation safety
• Infrastructure integrity inspections
• Valve recognition and operation
• Meter and regulating station meter installation and repairs
• Propane tank training

As the facility evolves, additional training areas will be identified, and the curriculum will continue to expand to meet industry needs.

Following the ribbon cutting ceremony, those in attendance were offered tours and safety demonstrations, highlighting the training opportunities available through the new facilities. The company’s natural gas and electric mobile training units were also on display. These units allow on-site safety training for contractors and community first-responder teams throughout the company’s service territories.

“Chesapeake Utilities’ commitment to safety and continuous improvement are on full display with this state-of-the-art training facility,” said Karen Chasez, mayor of DeBary. “Having this type of hands-on training in our area will help ensure first responders and community partners have the resources they need to help keep our community safe.”