News Release

Issued: 05.05.09

At: 9am

For immediate release

Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service Take on the Regional Extrication Challenge

Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) are sending two teams to the East Midlands Regional Extrication Challenge on 10 May 2009 at Lincoln Fire and Rescue Headquarters, Lincolnshire.

The competition is in its fifth year, with teams from Leicestershire winning in 2007. This year LFRS will be utilising the equipment involved in real life extractions; tools including Holmatro cutting equipment (Jaws of Life), StabFast stabilising equipment, medical equipment and glass management equipment will be used during the exercise.

The first round of collisions are staged using a single car and casualty and the second round consists of two cars and casualties. The teams have to compete with one another in order to release the casualties as comfortably as possible, adhering to all safety protocols and utilising all of the correct and necessary tools available.

The two teams representing LFRS, from Melton Mowbray and Southern Fire and Rescue Station, will be competing against other teams from Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Northamptonshire, and the event organisers Lincolnshire.

Alan Fawkner, Station Manager at Southern Fire and Rescue Station, said:

“The event tries to give out a road safety message, but also promotes the work of the Fire and Rescue services by giving individuals and teams the opportunity to pit their skills against counterparts within other services. It’s also a good opportunity to network and to see what new equipment is available to the emergency services”

The winners receive a shield and the title of Regional Champions 2009.

- ENDS -

Notes to News Desk

Interviews

Alan Fawkner, Station Manager at Southern Fire and Rescue Station, is available for interview on request.

Contact Information

For more information please contact:

Corporate Communications
Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service Tel 0116 287 2241