Hi-tech fire training will save more lives (From Winsford Guardian)

Hi-tech fire training will save more lives

1:30pm Thursday 17th June 2010

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WINSFORD is set to lead the way with a new state-of-the-art training facility.

The hi-tech training suite - believed to be the most advanced Europe - was officially opened by the Duke of Westminster at the Cheshire headquarters last week.

The development incorporates 3D simulation and aims to give its fire crews the most realistic training environment possible.

Clr David Topping, chairman of the fire authority, said: “We are confident this is the best training facility of its kind in the country and probably in Europe and it represents a major investment in the safety of our communities and our staff that work within them.”

The new training suite, created by VSTEP, is capable of recreating any type of fire or major incident with multi-display screens simulating a 360 degree view of an emergency.

Paul Hancock, Cheshire’s chief fire officer, said the use of virtual reality facilities was a vital element of future training.

“Cheshire is now far safer than it used to be with major reductions in the number of fires and incidents we attend,” he said.

“That means far less practical opportunities for staff to develop their skills, so our new suite is essential in providing a completely safe environment for people to become competent in managing a whole range of emergency incidents.”

The Duke of Westminster, who was given a tour of the new facilities before unveiling a plaque outside the building, said: “I am delighted that Cheshire is leading the way when it comes to the training and development of its firefighters.

“The facilities will undoubtedly lead to Cheshire being a safer place to live, work and enjoy due to the highly trained front line staff.”

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