MATCH
In late 2007 the Board of Fire and Life Safety (BFLS) was approached by the Temple University Police Academy with an offer to purchase an M.A.T.C.H. manufactured by Action Target. The structure was being displayed at the PA LE Expo in Harrisburg April 18th & 9th 2008. After the Expo Action Target was looking for a local buyer to avoid shipping the M.A.T.C.H. back to Utah, the building was being offered at a 50% discount. After reviewing the plans we were able to add some additional rooms and features to make the building more functional. This very specialized structure allows law enforcement officers to train using live ammunition in realistic scenarios.
Building 13B was chosen as the location for the M.A.T.C.H. This location provided the ability to use the structure year round in all weather. Building 13B was large enough to permit access to the M.A.T.C.H. on three sides and space for personnel and equipment staging.
The M.A.T.C.H. arrived on April 14 along with two factory installers. Using the Training Center equipment and staff the materials were unloaded from the three tractor trailers and laid out for inspection and installation. The erection began on April 15 and with the assistance of facility staff and community service the assembly was complete in 10 days. Working with the Delaware County Police Chief's Association the BFLS identified 40 officers, patrol and SWAT, to participate in two 4 day M.A.T.C.H. instructor Train the Trainer classes. The classes were held July 27th through August 8th 2008 and were conducted by Action Target Instructors lead by Bank Miller. At the conclusion of the training the facility was opened for use by local law enforcement.