A visit to the Peaks Lane Fire Station

A visit to the Peaks Lane fire Station.

John Clark (Comm/Voc convenor) arranged an evening visit for Tuesday 20th November to the Peaks Lane fire station.

After a welcoming cup of coffee the plan was for us to go down to the ground floor (people declined to slide down the pole!)to have  a look at the appliances.That was the plan, but we were delayed by an alarm and some of the team had to attend a garage fire.Fortunately only one aplliance was required.

There are two appliances,a rescue boat along with Simon snorkel based at this station.

The group was split into two and we were shown the wide variety of kit that is carried on an appliance. The range of tools was quite amazing ranging from the standard firemans axe to bush saws,sledge hammers,electric circular saws,mechanical jaws for cutting into metal.Some of the equipment was quite heavy and we appreciated how fit the fire operatives are.They all undergo a physical test every six months.

There also explained techniques for dealing with fires including the use of breathing apparatus and thermal  imaging cameras.Also noting that safety  of the operative is paramount .

One of the  latest pieces of kit is an inflatable rubber boat that can be used when there are floods.

It was a very interesting and instructive visit.

Thank you John for arranging the visit.