Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service (MFRS) has proudly welcomed 13 new firefighters at a special Pass Out Ceremony held at the Training and Development Academy (TDA) on Thursday 29th January.
The ceremony marked the culmination of 16 weeks of intensive training, recognising the recruits’ dedication, development, and progression. The new firefighters range in age from 19 to 35 and bring with them a wide range of life and work experience, including previous roles such as a HGV driver, NHS Admin Officer, Civil Service Officer, RAF Physical Training Instructor, Human Resources Assistant, and a Haemophilia Research Nurse.
Over the four-month Fire-fighter course, recruits undertook training in 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, hazardous materials, as well as gaining vital insight into National Resilience and Operational Assurance.
The event was attended by the High Sheriff of Merseyside Billy Hui BEM DL, MFRS Chief Fire Officer (CFO) Nick Searle, senior officers, and proud families and friends. Celebrations included a firefighter drill display, presentations from the recruits, and the awarding of certificates.
CFO Searle said:
“I’m 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 ahead of them, which goes beyond just fighting fires. I am extremely proud of each recruit, and I wish them a long and happy career with the Service we care so passionately about.”
As part of the ceremony, 28-year-old, James Love, who formerly served in the British Army, was named Top Recruit for Firefighter recruit course 02/25, after having excelled academically, technically, and in demonstrating the values and behaviours expected of an MFRS Firefighter.
The new firefighters will be now taking up posts at Community Fire Stations across Merseyside as Firefighters in Development, supporting communities and responding to incidents across the region.