Pioneering partnership results in new accredited training for wildfire response

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) is the first fire and rescue service to introduce accredited training for Wildfire response tactics, in conjunction with SFJ Awards. 

The Operational Development Team collaborated with SFJ Awards and Wildfire expert Group Manager, Craig Hope, to develop accredited qualifications tailored to various roles, from Wildfire Operators to Wildfire Planners (tactical managers). The Service attended 2,000 wildfires between March 2022 and August 2023.

The team prioritised providing essential training on specialised equipment, such as the Brush cutter, I-cutter, and leaf blower, to ensure that all operational staff are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to combat wildfires with utmost efficiency and safety. 

This isn’t the first time that SFJ Awards has worked with SWFRS. Group Manager for Training and Development, Craig Hope explained, “South Wales Fire and Rescue Service has been training crews and tactical officers on how to manage wildfires for many years. As the fire seasons and fire behaviour is changing, it was decided to update the training materials. This was a good opportunity to work with SFJ Awards to get the suite of wildfire courses accredited. This accreditation gives recognition for the quality and credibility of training, and shows our long-term commitment to learners and communities.” 

SFJ Awards is working with several other fire and rescue services to implement these new qualifications and is looking to create a nationally-recognised qualification, with the potential for designing a course to meet international standards, which can be utilised around the world.  

www.southwales-fire.gov.uk

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