Fire crews win race to stop thatch fire spreading

Firefighters from Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service were required to work tirelessly for a number of hours in order to prevent a thatched roof fire from affecting two nearby properties in Burton, Somerset last weekend.

Over 80 firefighters were called to the scene of the blaze, in East Coker close to Yeovil, which occurred just before 5am on Sunday morning.

The fire crews then had to battle to stop the fire, which had taken hold in the roof, from spreading to the two other adjoining terraced cottages.

Station manager for Yeovil Kevin Hardwill said:

“Eight appliances were sent to the incident and after the arrival of the first appliance that was increased to 12.

“Crews got to work immediately to create a fire break between the properties and were also engaged in carrying out salvage work from the affected property.

“The thatch was quite thick, which made it more of a job.”

The work of the firefighters, from South Somerset and Dorset Fire Service, was praised for containing the fire in the one cottage, meaning that only the roof was badly damaged.

There were no reported injuries in the blaze, but an investigation is now underway into the cause of the fire.

Ellington recycling centre blaze causes problems for firefighters

A fire which swept through Huntingdon Recycling Centre last Saturday was still burning on the Monday morning, meaning that fire crews had to remain at the scene until the flames had been fully extinguished.

The fire began in the early hours of Saturday when it was reported that more than a tonne of waste composted material had caught fire at the site in Ellington.

At the height of the blaze, about 3.30am, it took nine crews and around 60 firefighters to try and bring the situation under control. There was also support from the US Air Force who helped to provide water supplies to the Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire and Bedfordshire firefighters.

This caused the A14 westbound in Cambridgeshire to be closed for a number of hours and there was subsequent traffic disruption to the surrounding area.

The wood pulp fire was combatted by using heavy machinery, which helped to prevent the flames from spreading further.

However, despite getting a grip of things, firefighters still had to battle against strong winds which aggravated the situation, accounting for the prolonged nature of the fire.

Two fire crews were therefore still in attendance on the Monday morning, with a water foam unit in operation.
It is still not known what caused the fire and if it was started deliberately.

Fire Warden Training – Manchester

The instructor presented the content in a memorable way – Danielle McParland

I found the instructor explained everything in great detail, I found the practical exercise was great as it is hands on – Rebecca Thorley

Very relevant for me if a fire were to occur – Rakhee Sharda

Train the Trainer – Rotherham

Expertly delivered material by an enthusiastic and very knowledgable trainer – Ian Dickie

Clear, precise, the learning that took place was clear to see, the course was clearly different to any learning I had previously participated in, the level of knowledge and understanding I have gained will help me open new avenues within my career progression, covering all areas of roles, responsibilities of fire warden’s, the training is nothing like anything I have previously done and I believe it will make me a better person & presenter – Dave Evans

Excellent and appropiate course content, first class delivery by trainer – Tariq Khan

I have found this method of training most useful and different from other training sessions, although having been a trainer for a long time I am surprised on the amount that I have learned about myself, this is the first combined course where equal time was spent on the “Training Side” although I have been a trainer for many years I have learnt alot!! – Michael Fairholm

Terry has opened my eyes to a whole new world of physiologial approaches to training and kinaesthetic influences, didn’t know the relevance of the style of training that has taken place over the last three days, a new and fresh approach that I have learnt a great amount from.  Definately going to use these new techniques in my other training courses and enquire as to our companies risk assessments & fire safety log.  Gerry made everyone feel at ease with his presentation style, training was excellent and relevant as I’m an in house trainer – Peter Moran

I have be shown new ways of training people – Paul Reeve

Found both Terry and Gerry very friendly and engaging and informative.  Was different than what I expected but I did learn more from the techniques Terry used, I have definately gained the confidence and knowledge to conduct my own training courses, found the video clips useful, helped to break presentation up so as it wasn’t all power point information, 1st day and a half has really helped me to understand presenting to a group of people and that not all people learn the same way, ie visual, auditory, kinaesthetic – Colin Bickerstaff

Fire safety is of paramount importance at petrol stations

When it comes to petrol stations, there is a high risk of fire breaking out due to the flammable fuels which are stored in large volumes. This is why these premises have their own set of regulations and requirements in terms of fire safety.

If you work in a petrol station, or are responsible for the day-to-day operations of the business, it is necessary to ensure good housekeeping and prevent any untoward incidents from happening. You can go a long way to keeping the business, your staff as well as your customers, safe by keeping a watchful eye out at all times.

Fuel spills can easily be set alight by a stray cigarette or spark so it is necessary to remain attentive to what is going on outside the station itself. If there are any spills, then these need to be dealt with in the correct manner. It is also important to know where the fire extinguishers are kept and how to operate them in an emergency situation.

The above are all things that staff working on-site should know, so it is imperative that they are well trained in fire safety. A ‘Fire Safety in Petrol Stations’ course would be able to give them the level of training needed to be a competent fire warden and covers all of the issues mentioned in this article and more.