On Monday, June 24th, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) crews from Aberystwyth, Aberaeron, New Quay, Welshpool, Machynlleth and Llanfair Caereinon Fire Stations attended a training exercise at Aberystwyth University's campus.
During the simulated fire training exercise, crews utilised the new operational procedures for dealing with dirty fire kit and equipment that has been contaminated by the products of combustion. Research recently undertaken by the World Health Organisation has highlighted that firefighters who are exposed to soot and smoke over a long period of time may suffer from increased illnesses in later life.
The Fire Contaminants Project Officer, Group Manager Simon Pearson, attended the exercise and was pleased to see crews practicing the new procedures. He commented:
“It’s vitally important our fire crews protect themselves from the products of combustion as soot and fire particulates can remain on skin and clothing for a significant period of time. Due to this, our personal hygiene and cleaning procedures need to be enhanced to protect the health and well-being of our firefighters”.
Aberystwyth Fire Station’s Station Commander, Mark Ayling, said:
“I’d like to give a big thank you to Aberystwyth University for letting us use their buildings, it is vitally important our fire crews train in realistic environments. Additionally, a big thank you to the crew members who attended, some of which have travelled a large distance to participate in tonight’s exercise.”
