In pictures: Successful Wakefield District Training Exercise

Today is Emergency Services Day #999Day: Come behind the scenes with us at a #WYFRS50 training exercise.

Watch Manager (WM) Dan Terry of Ossett Green Watch recently organised a comprehensive district training exercise that put local firefighting teams through their paces in a scenario focused on line and water rescue operations. The exercise, designed to simulate a real-life emergency, tested the crews' ability to respond swiftly and effectively to a complex situation involving multiple casualties.

The exercise began with a distress call from a dog walker, played by WM Lara Terry, reporting that three youths were in serious danger near a river system. The scenario was carefully crafted to challenge the participating teams: one youth had fallen into the river and was missing, while the other two were suspended precariously beneath a bridge overlooking the fast-moving water.

Crews from Ossett, Pontefract, Rothwell, and Wakefield Green Watch were immediately mobilised to the scene. However, the Cleckheaton Technical Rescue Team, who were scheduled to participate, was diverted to an actual incident, leaving the remaining teams to resolve the situation without specialist support. This unexpected development added an extra layer of realism and urgency to the exercise, forcing the crews to rely on their training and resourcefulness.

Upon arrival, the teams quickly deployed a bankside search to locate the missing youth, played by Firefighter Smith. After an intense search, the youth was found approximately 300 metres downstream and was safely rescued.

Simultaneously, the combined crews devised a complex line rescue system to reach the two remaining youths trapped beneath the bridge. The teams worked collaboratively to lower the youths to safety, where they were met by a water rescue team equipped with sleds, ready to transport them out of harm's way.

Wakefield Green Watch played a critical role in supporting the operation, contributing their expertise and ensuring a coordinated approach across all teams.

WM Dan Terry praised the crews for their professionalism and adaptability throughout the exercise. “The unexpected call-out of the Cleckheaton crew provided an invaluable opportunity for our teams to test their skills under pressure, without the usual specialist support. The success of this exercise is a testament to the dedication and teamwork of everyone involved,” he said.

The exercise successfully concluded, with all "casualties" safely rescued, and valuable lessons learned that will further enhance the crews’ readiness for real-life emergencies. Exercises like this one are crucial in ensuring that West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service is fully prepared to respond to the wide range of incidents they may encounter.

The district training exercise was not only a success in terms of the practical skills displayed, but also in strengthening the importance of inter-crew collaboration and quick decision-making in critical situations.

Remember, if you see someone in trouble in inland water, make the right call - call 999 and ask for the Fire and Rescue Service.

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