We welcomed corporate supporter teams to experience being a ‘firefighter for a day’ in Kidderminster recently.
The event at Wyre Forest Fire Station – the first of its kind – offered participants from Serve and Protect Credit Union, Siderise and Frequentis hands-on experience with breathing apparatus, hose runs, dam building, RTC response exercises, and more, all led by professional firefighters.
Retired firefighter Dave Smith and a team of dedicated volunteers also supported the day, offering guidance and much-needed refreshments.
Debbie Rushbrooke, our Corporate Partnerships Manager, said: “We’ve had huge support from Hereford and Worcester FRS, our amazing volunteers, and the teams who attended.”
And speaking about the structure of the day, she added: “Teams arrive and are kitted out, before getting a briefing and then going through a series of scenarios throughout the day. Each of the scenarios mirror some of the situations firefighters can face on a daily basis… it’s about them understanding what firefighters deal with in their roles.
“There are huge benefits for corporate supporters too – this is very much a team building event an a unique staff development opportunity… from the conversations I’ve had, all the teams really enjoyed it and some described it as the best experience they’d ever had which was amazing to hear.”
Jon Pryce, Chief Fire Officer at Hereford and Worcester FRS, added:
“This day was organised by our retired firefighters in conjunction with some of our operational staff who gave up their own time to support the day. It’s a brilliant way to showcase the UK Fire and Rescue sector, by demonstrating our problem-solving and leadership skills, team work, and the full scope of services we offer, beyond just firefighting.
“It also offered the corporate teams some real benefits they can take back to their workplaces, including a host of skills around working as a team, thinking creatively, coming up with solutions and assessing risk.”
The event was the first of its kind, and we’re encouraging any teams which may be keen to try being a firefighter for the day get in touch.
“This event is just the beginning – we’re hoping it will be the first of many! We’re inviting teams who are curious about what it’s like to step into the boots of a firefighter for the day to get in touch,” said Debbie.
“I’d also love to hear from any businesses or corporate groups who might be interested in joining us for a future session. It’s a fantastic chance to experience something truly unique, and I’d be happy to share more about what’s involved.
“We’re also keen to explore longer-term partnerships – our work can only continue with your support, and we’d love to have you on board.”
A special thank you also goes to Rosenbauer which kindly donated some helmets for the day, which our teams wore in each of the scenarios.
You can contact Debbie by emailing [email protected] or discover more opportunities at www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/corporate.
But don’t take our word for it – here’s what the teams had to say about the day:
Siderise’s Richard on the breathing apparatus exercise: “It’s one of the best things I’ve ever done.”
Serve and Protect’s Mark on the whole day: “It’s been really, really interesting. I was a retired police officer, so I’ve seen firefighters ‘in the wild’, but to see the work that goes on behind the scenes has been fascinating. We, as a company, serve the Blue Light and Emergency Services family – so it’s been a great opportunity to come together as a team, but also learn more about the amazing work that is going on.”
Frequentis’ Mark on the experience: “We ALL thoroughly enjoyed the day while also finding it very humbling what the FRS’s are prepared for daily. I have spent nearly 20 years working with and delivering essential services to various Public Safety organisations and I have attended a number of events over the years, but I think when you put yourself in the actual boots of the people who do the job day in day out you have even more upmost respect for the men and women of the Fire Service.”
