22/08/2008

Firefighters Compete In British Rescue Challenge

More than 500 officers are to participate in the finals of the UK Rescue and Extrication Competition.

The United Kingdom Rescue Organisation (UKRO) British Rescue Challenge, hosted by the Central Scotland Fire and Rescue Service, will take place at the University of Stirling.

Around 50 teams will compete to find which is the best at rescuing live casualties from simulated road accidents using recovery vehicles.

The event will start today and continue over the weekend.

Each crew will compete in one of three simulated rescue scenarios - the car crash rescue challenge, high angled rope challenge and trauma challenge.

Central Scotland Fire Chief Steven Torrie said the event was a "crucial" way for firefighters to improve their skills.

"This is a tremendous event which demonstrates the skill and determination of firefighters to deliver the best possible service to the public," he said.

He added that his own team has in the past been world champions.

The event is free and open to the public.

Both the opening and closing ceremonies will be held on the same site.

The main challenge arena will be situated below the Wallace Monument.

The campus-based University is close to the Bridge of Allan and is two miles from Stirling.

(DS)

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