Avon Fire & Rescue Service AFRS
Served 30 years in fire service.
From 2010 until 2016, I was stationed at Temple09 in the centre of Bristol. Following intense training, I became a member of the VLR vertical line rescue team. We trained each shift at the station on the training wall and at venues around Bristol. Monthly/bi monthly, we would train off of hazardous sites, such as Avon gorge, Site cranes and high rise buildings.
I have added this as a single entry as I cannot provide dates for all the training events or real life rescues.
During this time, as a crew commander, I supervised at training and live rescues, setting perimeters, organising crews and setting up belays. The role also involved top safety supervision, checking personnel equipment before they deployed and logging and monitoring of all equipment used.
To keep up CPD, I would also participate as a group member abseiling solo, as part of a team and with stretchers.
Working towards VLR instructor, I also took on many observational roles. I transferred station for promotion before completing the course.
During my time with the team, I took part in several live rescues and recoveries both as supervisor and team member.
