On Thursday 21st March and Tuesday 26th March, the team was invited to send its leaders to observe and participate in the introduction and associated familiarity training of new line rescue equipment being introduced onto all GMFS appliances and platforms. Each day was held at Bolton Fire Station and involved GMFS Rope Access Instructors undergoing lowering and raising system training, and use of the quad pod and integral winch.
Our DTL attended day 1, with our TL on day 2. We were also joined by our colleagues from RSRT on the second day.
Both days were judged to be a success, and although these were primarily training events for GMFS, ourselves (and RSRT) benefited from the awareness of GMFS techniques, and the opportunities to strengthen the operational relationships we have with the Fire Service.
A late afternoon call out, whilst we and RSRT were still at the Fire Station ended in a quick stand down. (see Incident 33/2002).