Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service (MFRS) has welcomed its latest firefighters to the organisation at the Pass Out celebration of course 02/22.
The 18 apprentice firefighters celebrated their successes in the ceremony at the MFRS Training and Development Academy (TDA) on Friday 2nd December, a culmination of 16 weeks of learning, development and progression.
Across the four months, the firefighter recruit course included training on breathing apparatus, pumps and ladders, compartment fire behaviour, first response emergency care, road traffic collisions, compressed air foam systems, methods of entry, water rescue, working at height and hazardous material, as well as insights into National Resilience and Operational Assurance.
Deputy Lord Lieutenant Captain Hugh B Daglish LVO JP, MFRS Chief Fire Officer Phil Garrigan, MFRS senior officers and family and friends of the recruits attended the Pass Out celebration, which included a drill display demonstration, presentations by the recruit firefighters, and presentation of certificates.
CFO Garrigan said: “I am delighted that our recruits have successfully completed the most demanding training course in the UK fire and rescue service to become operational firefighters here in Merseyside. This training has been crucial in preparing them for the varied and challenging role of a firefighter - which you will understand goes way beyond fighting fires. They have shown tenacity, diligence and a real appetite to succeed - these are essential attributes of a firefighter. I am extremely proud of each and every one of them and I wish them a long and happy career with the Service we care so passionately about."
The recruits of course 02/22 range in age from 23-32 years old and come from a variety of different backgrounds, including an engineer, lifeguard, outreach and youth worker and healthcare assistant.
24-year-old Leon Lewis, who formerly worked in security, was named Top Recruit for course 02/22. Leon was identified by his peers and instructors alike, having excelled technically, academically and more importantly through the values and behaviours he exhibited. Congratulations Leon.
The recruits will now be posted to community fire stations across Merseyside to continue their apprenticeship training as firefighters in development until they become fully competent firefighters.
