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december 2011

Keeping Fire and Rescue Service Personnel Informed Review of the Year

elcome to this festive edition of the Alert. June the Service attended It has been a challenging and yet several large incidents including Wrewarding year. We have once again a fire at the Castle shown ourselves to be an award winning excellent Hotel and a blaze that destroyed authority in both the way we deal with operational a garden centre. The incidents as well as our innovative approach to Service’s stand at the Cheshire making our communities safer. Show proved as popular as ever as thousands visited to discover We would like to thank staff and volunteers for more about what we do. The their hard work and commitment that helped make second annual Cheshire Safety us Fire and Rescue Service of the Year 2011. Day was a very successful event. Wishing everyone a happy Christmas and a July our Service led the way peaceful New Year. during a nationwide Motorway Paul Hancock, Chief Fire Officer Engagement Day as staff spoke David Topping, Chair of the Fire Authority to more than a 1000 drivers. This month also saw the Service’s January saw the launch of a new safety initiative – RESPECT programme celebrate its 100th graduation. Home Safety Direct. This new online service aimed to August saw the might of White Watch Runcorn take on Cheshire help residents assess their own fire safety. Police during a charity boxing night that raised more than £5000 for February witnessed the Cheshire ISAR team charity. Staff from across the organisation teamed up for a really embark on an emotional mission to New Zealand to successful display at this year’s Pride event. assist the country recover from a massive earthquake. September brought with it a royal visit to our headquarters from March the Service’s search and rescue dog Bryn the Duke of Kent who had been keen to spend time with the Fire joined his owner, Steve Buckley as they travelled to and Rescue Service of the Year 2011. This was the month that the Japan to assist in the aftermath of yet another major Service was awarded the ‘Excellence’ criteria for its commitment to natural disaster. This month also saw the Service host Equality and Diversity. its annual STAR Awards and Long Service Good October was the month that the Service launched its ‘Come Conduct medal ceremony at the Park Royal Hotel in Cook with Me’ safety campaign. The artwork for this campaign was . designed by firefighter Andy Jones. The campaign also saw us team April brought with it a reason to celebrate as we up with celebrity chef Brian Mellor. were proclaimed the Fire and Rescue Service of the In November we continued to work in partnership with other Year at the Spirit of Fire Awards. organisations to drive down the number of bonfire related incidents. May was another award winning month for the This included the ‘On the Streets’ team joining forces with the Service as we claimed the Best Partnership category firefighters and magician John Turner for a focused youth at the Fire Excellence Awards. A family from hit engagement activity in . The Service also hosted a IFE the headlines this month after a smoke alarm saved accredited ‘Training with FX’ conference. them from a house fire. December the annual Emergency Services Carol Concert once again proved to be a big hit with staff and residents alike. I PLUS N FESTIVE S QUIZ I pg24 D Volunteers win New boat Open days - Hairy moments E award - pg4 launched - pg11 pg12-13 - pg18 alert 2 december • 2011 Singing a song of safety

irchwood firefighters spent a day at St Peter's Roman Catholic Primary School in Woolston Brecently. The crew spoke to each year group about fire and road safety, paying particular attention to crossing safely and safe cycling and spoke to the entire school over the course of the day as part of the school's 'Health and Safety' week. The headteacher made a special request that firefighter Steven Haste take the lead in delivering the talks, as he had previously visited the school and had obviously make an impression. Steven did a range of different deliveries depending on the year group and even led an impromptu sing-along with the reception class which the children liked. Steven said: "We've built up a good rapport with the school over the course of previous visits and it's a great pleasure to work with a group of such receptive children". n Firefighters and pupils at St Peters School, Woolston Achieving excellence

Cheshire has become one of the first fire and rescue services in the country to achieve the highest possible award for its commitment to equality and diversity. Harcombe The Service had to undergo a rigorous assessment by an external team before being accredited with the prestigious ‘Excellence' in the national fire and rescue equality framework. House “To demonstrate Excellence in the Equality Framework is a real challenge and I am absolutely delighted that we have been successful and received such a positive report from the assessment team,” said Fire Authority Chair Cllr. David Topping. The assessors report said that: • The Service has a detailed and sophisticated understanding of Cheshire's communities which it uses to undertake a range of activities to improve outcomes for specific vulnerable groups • It encourages innovation and is open minded to exploring new activities. Its use of advocates and volunteers is worthy of Following illness and surgery Judi particular note Boardman, part of the Service’s Health Safety and Well-being team spent a week’s • Equality issues are embedded ….Equality Impact Assessments recuperation at Harcombe House, The Fire are used systematically Fighter’s Charity facility in Devon. • Leaders demonstrate commitment to equalities and diversity and Judi explained, “I knew of the Charity’s the Service has a positive reputation with other organisations. services but always associated it with firefighters Cllr. Stef Nelson, the Authority's Member champion for equalities and recuperative physiotherapy following injury, added, “Our commitment to equality and diversity is key to providing but I was assured that I was eligible and was an effective service as it ensures we are actively involved with all encouraged to apply. sections of our communities and know the different risks and issues “There are similar facilities in Cumbria and they face. West Sussex and they are available to all “I am especially pleased that the assessors highlighted the positive Service employees and their families. I would attitude and commitment shown by all the staff they met and spoke to recommend it to anyone.” during their three-day visit.” For more details about the Charity and what The four-strong assessment included representatives from the it can do for you, go to Local Government Improvement and Development group, other fire www.firefighterscharity.org.uk and rescue services and councils. december • 2011 3 alert Cows rescued from mud bath wo cows from are difficult extrication and enjoying freedom after being crews showed Trescued from deep mud by professionalism and Cheshire Fire and Rescue crews. compassion at all times during the incident, not The cattle had grazed their way to a just to the trapped pond and become trapped in animals but to the surrounding marshland, sinking deeper farmer and his family and deeper until they were stuck up to who were naturally their necks. The farmer who was concerned for the unable to release them called the welfare of the cows.” Service on a Wednesday in November. A crew from was first on the scene, quickly followed by the Service's specialist Animal Rescue Unit from . The only way to reach the entrapped animals was on foot. For three hours in muddy wet surroundings the rescuers worked tirelessly using ropes, specialised matting and lifting machinery to release the distressed beasts. Once lifted to hard ground the cows were checked over before being returned safely, though muddy, to the herd. Mobile Incident Commander Keith Roughley said, "This was a particularly Road safety comes to and uring September members of Blue Watch along with Pete DShields and the Road Safety Team organised and ran a Driver Engagement Day in the Burtonwood area of the town. This was in response to three recent road traffic fatalities in the area the month before. The event was set up in a local pub car park and involved Police and volunteers from Community Safety. public approached crews giving their demonstrate the effects of drink driving approval of the work and praised the using ‘beer goggles’. Overall the event was a success team for promoting positive action in with Police stopping over 30 motorists There was also a reaction test for the Burtonwood area. for offences ranging from no seat belts people to see how long it would take to not displaying a tax disc. These In November Birchwood fire crews them to effectively brake at different people were then given the option of together with Pete Shields hosted an speeds if they had to brake suddenly. prosecution or watching road safety event at The Centre, Birchwood Park Hundreds of business professionals DVD's for 15 minutes with crews. as part of National Road Safety Week. received information on the day and alongside the practical aspect of the Temp Watch Manager Graham Davies Road safety information, ice said, “Following the recent fatalities we event it is hoped that they will now scrapers, screenwash and tyre drive more safely this winter. felt that some high profile work in the pressure gauges were given out and area was needed. Members of the the driving simulator was used to alert 4 december • 2011 Award winning volunteers at your service

he Service’s volunteers have triumphed at the Guardian TPublic Services Awards. The eight-strong Post-Fire Support Team has won the coveted Citizenship and Volunteering category in the national newspaper's showcase for innovation and best practice across public sector services. Pete Chadwick, PFST Co- ordinator is delighted his team has been recognised: "It's wonderful that the team has won this prestigious award. We all personally gain such a lot from volunteering with the Service so to be recognised for the work we do is icing on the cake.” The Post-Fire Support Team is an around-the-clock after-fire clean-up service organised and run entirely by volunteers across Cheshire, Halton and Warrington. The idea came from firefighters themselves who were n Peter Chadwick, CFRS Co-ordinator and Steve Morris, CFRS volunteer member, concerned that they did not have the both of the Post-Fire Support Team time to adequately support the distressed residents they were seeing Hancock said, "This is a fantastic work in pairs across 24 fire stations in in the course of dealing with minor achievement by the Team, particularly the county. Volunteers are contacted domestic incidents such as kitchen as it has only been in operation for just by Cheshire's control room via pagers fires over a year. Our volunteers not only on the request of the fire officer in Representatives from the Service give their time to help others, they are charge and sent in within 90 minutes, collected the accolade at a ceremony totally committed to the community as long as the premises are still safe on 22 November. The awards are and are an invaluable asset to the and habitable. Over the last 12 widely recognised as the gold standard Service.” months the team has attended 20 incidents, cleaning waterlogged areas, of achievement by public services Launched in July 2010, the team clearing fire soot, and dismantling and teams. operates on a 24-hour rota and its bagging up damaged furniture for Following the awards presentation eight volunteers – two fire service disposal. Cheshire's Chief Fire Officer Paul employees and six trained civilians – ‘Green ’ fingered watch ’ Green watch teamed up Rain failed to dampen spirits on the with St Basils Catholic junior school opening day as the ribbon was cut by in to create an on-site Halton Mayor Marie Wright and Fire allotment. Authority Member and Council Leader, Rob Polhill. The event incorporated This was part of their commitment other activities such as chip pan fire to the school as part of the Pheonix demonstrations and advice on healthy Project. The allotment will be used as living from the Halton and St Helens an outdoor classroom and can be health improvement teams. incorporated in many lessons from numeracy to art as well as assisting n The official ribbon cutting the school in their ‘Healthy Schools’ programme. december • 2011 5 alert Simulating event IN BRIEF he Deafness Support Network attendees were encouraged to wear asked the Community Safety “beer goggles” which distort the image CONFIDENCE Tteam to put on a presentation to recreate the feeling of driving while to their staff for their annual intoxicated. The attendees thought meeting. this was great fun and the feed back BUILDING from the staff was very positive. Staff Firefighters from Birchwood enjoyed Cheshire West and Lead also walked a line on the ground a productive day working with Advocate Alison Lamb and Peter wearing the goggles giving the young people on the RESPECT Shields from Road Safety used the impression they had drunk several programme. driver engagement DVD presentation pints of beer. Although everyone was which covers safety on the roads, The crew involved them in a road highly amused by the sensation correct use of seat belts, the dangers caused at the same time they were traffic collision extrication using the of drink and drug driving, speeding well aware of the dangers posed while Holmatro cutting equipment to and distraction driving. The driving. perform a door removal, dashboard presentation had been amended to lift and roof removal. The session include subtitles so the staff could then It was a really positive presentation was a great success with the use interpreters so no one missed out and by working with staff members at attendees gaining confidence on the important messages. the Deafness Support Network staff were able to promote such an throughout the exercise and The driving simulator was used important message. developing good team work skills. which simulates driving a car but the

PATHWAY n Trying out the beer goggles and using the driving simulator SUCCESS Learning and Development would like to congratulate Mandy Eeles and Shirley Fisher who have A day on the river become the Service’s first two learners to receive the ‘Pathways The RESPECT Team from Ellesmere Programme – Successful People Port visited Chester White Watch in Management’ certificate endorsed October and spent the day with two by the ILM. fire engines, the hydraulic platform and the rescue boat along with the Certificates are awarded to Swift Water Rescue Technicians. candidates enrolled onto the programme who achieve 24 hours The team had the opportunity to or more of guided learning. see the heights of Chester in the high lift cage followed by a trip down the If you are interested in finding out river, all dressed in dry suits and more about the Pathways personal floatation devices and were Programme, please contact told the roles of boat operatives and Learning and Development. the types of incidents the boat attends. Firefighter Daniel Holmes demonstrated his “duck to water” skills by carrying out rescues using the “Jacobs ladder”, a device which can roll casualties out of the water and onto the boat and also his rescue techniques on a tethered swim to a casualty, pulling them up into the boat safely. alert 6 december • 2011 Runcorn graduation fter 12 weeks of intense The second drill of the evening training and several weeks of was a basic slip and pitch of the Apractice, the new Fire Cadet 7.5m ladder to the first floor of recruits at Runcorn Fire Station the training tower. Again, this was were ready to display their new carried out with loud and clear found skills to their families, friends command calls from the No.1 in and Fire Service dignitaries at their the drill, Fire Cadet James Smith. graduation in November. Two cadets also performed The Cadets came up with the drills ladder related tasks; Fire Cadet, for the evening. These showcased how Mollie Meah performed a faultless far their practical and teamwork skills leg lock, even though she is not have developed since joining. very keen on heights and Fire Cadet Bethany Heeley entered Proud parents watched on as the the first floor and then exited and evening began with a high pressure fire in the second floor of the training climbed back down. hose reel drill under the guidance of tower. The 7.5m ladder is again Runcorn’s newest Cadet Leader, The final drill would be a pitched and Fire Cadet Jack Fleet was Jakub Boote, himself a former Fire combination exercise with a “mock” up it and in through the window to Cadet. assist a ‘casualty’. Once back inside the station, speeches from Jakub Boote on behalf of the Cadet Leaders and Bethany Heeley and Aimee Neeves on behalf of the Cadets were given. Unitary Performance Manager Alex Waller then presented the Cadets with their certificates. Fire Cadet Tom McGauley was also promoted to the rank of Crew Manager due to his knowledge of the drills, commands and equipment use. Top award for donor

Community Safety Advocate Willie Sarson, has recently received an award for making over 75 donations of blood platelets. The award was presented by a couple who lost their daughter when she was 18 months old after finding out that she had a rare genetic disorder even after receiving a number of platelet and blood donations. Their second child was found to have the same disorder but after receiving platelets, stem cell and blood which was all donated by the n Willie (on right) receiving a Royal Doulton engraved platter from the volunteering public, she is about to start school as grateful parents a very happy little girl. Willie commented, “It was a very heart warming reading this I really hope others would consider donating as only 4% of and emotional event. I am now a regular platelet the population regularly give blood and only 3% of that total achieve donor and have to drive to Stoke-on-Trent to go on 75+ donations.” a machine for about 80 minutes to donate. After december • 2011 7 alert Bonfire night THANKS competition rockets ELDERLY ntries for our 2011 Bonfire Night PEDESTRIAN poster competition rocketed in {I wish to express my gratitude to ENovember. members of the fire crew who The bonfire safety poster competition happened to be passing last was run as part of the “Don’t follow the Tuesday when I was injured in a car guys!” bonfire safety campaign. Children accident. Their immediate concern in Primary School Years 5 and 6 were was my welfare and their cheerful invited to submit posters showing how but very professional way in which they would stay safe on bonfire night this they responded enabled me to relax year. at a time of extreme stress. You made me feel like the most Over 50 posters were submitted from important person in the world at that eight schools across the county with the moment, which raised my spirits top ten selected for an online vote by the n Halton – (L to R) Pete Finnegan and CM Stephen White (Blue Watch, immensely. public. These top ten sparked 340 votes | Runcorn) and Freya in one week. Winners from Cheshire Wilmslow resident West, Halton and Warrington won an iPod Shuffle and both winners and runners up had their artwork framed and presented in front of their school friends. And the winners are.... SEA SCOUTS Halton – Freya Hill, runner up Jack Taylor, both from Moorside School, Runcorn. Cheshire West – Demi Leigh Snape, runner up Emma Murphy, both from FIRE BADGE Greenfields Primary School in Winsford. Warrington – Scarlett Stroud, Cinnamon On behalf of 15th Macclesfield Sea Brow School, Birchwood { Scouts I wanted to thank both White and Red Watch for doing their Fire Safety badge. They made it such fun and were very kind towards the whole group. We are delighted that they achieved the badge and learnt something very important about such a fantastic Service. Please find enclosed a donation to The Fire Fighters Charity as a token of our appreciation of the Fire Service as a whole. | n Cheshire West - (L to R) WM Paul Sullivan (Winsford), Deputy Head Liz n Warrington – Phil Kilgour pictured with Chapman, Teacher: Tamsyn Bradley, TEAM winner Scarlett Stroud Winner: Demi Leigh Snape, Runner up: Emma Murphy EFFORT Crews from Macclesfield, and Wilmslow attended an incident. {I was involved in a car accident in Henbury in September. I was the driver who had to be cut free from Dear Paul the wreckage by the team working thanks to you and Kent has asked me to pass on his on that evening. I am writing to HRH The Duke of ng and nts you made for the very interesti your colleagues for the arrangeme send you my sincere thanks for the rs. instructive visit to your Headquarte work of all who attended the initiative you have incident and freed me from the car. was particularly impressed by the | His Royal Highness ative d training through the use of innov taken to improve incident comman Knutsford resident lking to the cadets. software, and he much enjoyed ta ose who contributed to briefings Please pass on his thanks to all th during the visit. alert 8 december • 2011 Tree rescue is tall order rews from Birchwood, and CKnutsford attended an unusual incident involving a 35 year- old man trapped by his foot up a large tree. Watch Manager John Verry said “While on-route to the incident you try to anticipate what the situation might entail. My first thoughts were of a young child playing up the tree and may be got into difficulty so it was a bit of an eye opener to see a man entrapped up a large tree which he had been attempting to cut away using a petrol chain saw. “My immediate concern was to secure any further movement of the branch as well as safely secure him in “Our decision was to utilise a then treated by paramedics before the best comfortable position possible. ‘Milwaukee’ saw at a chosen point being transported to hospital.” “Firefighter Evans was tasked to along the branch that would in theory A debrief was conducted prior to secured himself and the casualty into cause the least amount of movement. leaving the scene of which John position and also remain with him Ambulance staff trained in height praised all the emergency staff for their through the extrication, reassuring him rescue ascended the ladder and assistance and professional approach and assessing his condition. His left administered pain relief. Even though for a successful conclusion to this foot was well and truly trapped under a he was suffering some discomfort he difficult incident. John also concluded large elbow of the tree. With the full remained in good spirits throughout . that it was probably a good idea response now in attendance it was a “Once cut the branch immediately should anyone feel like ‘branching out’ delicate extrication as we were released the load from his trapped limb in this field it would be advisable to constantly reviewing our actions due to and we were then able to successfully seek some professional advice from a the dynamics of the weighted branch. lower him to ground level were he was tree surgeon! Driving force Green Watch in Widnes has recently started to work in conjunction with Riverside College in Widnes to educate young drivers about the dangers they face when driving. The aim of the programme was to show them the impact collisions have on them, their families and victim’s families. On their half day visit to the fire station, students were told about the general role of the Fire Service and firefighting. They were then shown around the fire station and fire engines. The presentation included showing the students various video clips and n Firefighter David discussions ensued about their possible Cross presenting effect. The sessions were enjoyable but the driving safety session at the same time sent the visitors away with a message of just how dangerous driving can be. december • 2011 9 alert Insight into training

hree inspectors from the undergoing assessment, became use some of the tools used by the Health and Safety Executive immersed in the process and they crew in the rescue. (HSE) spent the day at the commented on the level of realism the T Following a lunch at which the Service Headquarters to witness interactive process created. inspectors had an opportunity to meet first hand how operational training is The visit then shifted to the training the Senior Management Team the conducted and what is involved in ground where one of the inspectors three were put through the Breathing some of our operational activities. volunteered to act as the driver of a Apparatus (BA) crawl used as part of The programme which was crashed car in a road traffic collision the firefighter recruitment tests. In full facilitated by Watch Manager’s Jami exercise. fire kit but minus the BA set the three Jennings and Brian Ellis included a visit took it in turns to negotiate the crawl, A crew from Winsford fire station to the Incident Command Training first with normal vision then with an arrived, blue lights flashing and Suite where they observed the early insert in their face mask to simulate the proceeded to extricate her from the stages of the management of a fire at a effect of smoke on visibility. wrecked car whilst her colleagues warehouse and the decision making observed to a running commentary At the debrief all three inspectors process including dynamic risk from Jami. commented on the value of the visit, assessment and the use of information on the insight they had gained into from the 7(2)(d). The rescued inspector later how the Service operates and on how commented on the level of team work They saw how even though this this would help should they ever be shown by the crew and the confidence was a simulated exercise Watch involved with an investigation into a fire provided as she was talked through Manager Rob Milnes, who was playing and rescue service as a result of their what they were doing. All three the part of the incident commander work. inspectors then had the opportunity to

n HSE Inspector Lisa about to be taken out of the car on a spinal board; Lisa using a Holmatro tool to cut the A post of a car; Lisa emerging from the BA crawl Tackling stereotypes Firefighters attended Ryefields The purpose was to encourage Retirement Village in Warrington people to be active and to raise where they met with the residents awareness of the benefits that during celebrations for the physical, social and mental activity International Day for Older People. brings. The main aim of the event was a The visiting firefighters offered the national celebration of the residents contact assessments outside achievements and contributions that the normal Home Safety Assessment older people make to our society and scenario which was received extremely to the economy and through this start well with the residents themselves to tackle negative attitudes and providing the crews with some outdated stereotypes. amusing anecdotes - a special mention should go to Bill, aged 84, The theme for Older People’s Day who serenaded the crew. was “getting and staying active in later n Bill with FF H Talbot life”. alert 10 december • 2011 Professional performance

irefighters fought to save a row space to the two neighbouring of houses after a blaze broke houses. out in a Warrington Street. F “We ensured that all the nearby Crews were called to a report of a properties had been evacuated as we house fire on Algernon Street in began fighting the fire. We tackled the Warrington at just after 7.30pm on fire with jets of water on ground level. Tuesday, November 15. We also used the hydraulic platform to spray water on the fire from above. The fire involved an end terrace property with fire spread into the next Unitary Performance Manager Alex door attic. The gable end of the end Waller added, “This was a challenging house had also collapsed. incident and the firefighters and commanders involved did a great job Watch Manager Frank Williamson in containing the fire, their swift actions explained, “When we arrived we were and professionalism preventing loss of confronted with a significant fire in an further homes.” end terrace property. Flames could be seen coming through the window and The crews involved in this incident roof of the home. The fire was also were from Stockton Heath, Widnes, beginning to spread through the roof Birchwood, Warrington and . Hitting the mark

Fire crews from across the region Station Manager Stuart Devereux descended on Warrington Fire who organised the event explained, Station for Exercise Watermark. “We set up a ‘live’ play exercise spread over a wide geographical area. The The training event aimed to test idea was to test how teams from the how effective a joined up response to different Services were managed and water incidents would be in the north interacted together during a series of west. scenarios. Some of these involved the rescue of either live people or drill n Crews from Warrington and Cumbria prepare for an exercise on the River dummies.” Weaver in Cheshire was joined by crews from Lancashire, Cumbria, , Greater Manchester and Cheshire Search and Technical Rescue Team. They were deployed to mock incidents on the waterways of Warrington, Frodsham and .

n Crews rescue some students from Mid-Cheshire College who acted as worried casualties during the n Exercise Watermark’s control room Frodsham scenario

Do you have any comments or suggestions for Be future editions of the Alert? If so call the Service’s Corporate Communications team on 01606 868786 Alert! or email chris.blackham@cheshirefire.gov.uk december • 2011 11 alert New boat to the rescue

ater rescue capability has been increased for the WService as it has recently taken delivery of a Defra-funded water rescue boat increasing the county's capability to three craft. A bid to Defra was entered following the March 2008 CLG Flooding Review report ‘Facing the Challenge' to cover the cost of additional water rescue capability to support both out of county and in county response to flooding. Mark Coleman, Cheshire Fire and Rescue’s Operational Research and Development Manager said, “This investment by Defra puts us in a strong position to respond even more effectively to rescue situations and unexpected environmental events such as flooding and represents a real boost to reduce our own safety cover. by a team of 12 personnel dedicated for 24 hour on-call out of county not only to Cheshire’s waterways but The new boat is a fully inflatable deployment. They are Cheshire's to our out of county resilience. The craft designed to suit the needs of UKISAR team, trained and equipped to successful bid underpins our emergency services and rapid be self-sufficient for 48 hours. commitment to safety and our ability to response units. Deployable within reflect and deal with real issues and three minutes, trailered or carried by The successful bid has also dangers in our planning.” four people to location, the major provided for a wading response The Service already has two Water factors of its design are speed of capability of 120 wading suits and 40 Rescue Units based at Warrington and deployment, ease of transportation wading poles distributed to ten of Chester. The arrival of the third boat and tough durability. Cheshire's fire stations for response and rescue in high risk areas of allows for a response to be provided This additional outfit will be crewed outside of Cheshire without the need flooding across the county. Speaking out November saw six members of staff go head to head at the IFE Lecturette competition. Each participant had to deliver a presentation on a fire related topic area to a judging panel and audience. All the presentations were interesting, varied and entertaining - making it a very hard decision for the judging panel. The overall winner was Phil Usher, Risk Analysis and Intelligence Manager, with the runner-up MIC officer Helen Tooley. Phil engaged the audience with his entertaining and informative presentation on “Risk and Me” while Helen intrigued the audience with her thought provoking presentation on “fire fighting with electricity”. Well done to all the participants who made the reintroduction of the IFE lecturette competition possible and also a huge success and a thank you to the Cheshire Branch of the IFE who sponsored the competition and who donated the prizes and n Phil Usher recieving his award. trophies. alert 12 december • 2011

Stockton Heath Fire Station held Hundreds of people descended on its first ever open day which Winsford Fire Station for an event that included demonstrations from fire combined serious safety messages cadets and the rope rescue unit, with family fun. The event featured a chip pan fire demonstrations, a whole host of displays and activities vintage fire engine and the aimed at promoting road and home fire hydraulic platform. safety. Partner agencies attending Organiser Darren Hickson said, "It was including the members of the Army a really successful event. 0ver 1300 from the Mercian Regiment, the people attended and I hope that they all Police, Road Safety and the Fire had a great time but more importantly Fighters Charity and visitors included that they left remembering some the Mayor of Warrington and potentially life saving messages. We held member of the Fire Authority Cllr. a treasure hunt for the children and Mike Biggin. handed out over 500 free ice creams. Children were entertained by a Charities that benefitted from the day bouncy castle, free balloons and face include The Fire Fighters Charity and the painting, ice creams and cakes. Ghana Cadet fund. I would like to say a big “thank you” to everyone who gave The successful day saw more their time in helping the Open Day to be than 1,000 people attend and was such a huge success.” organised by Firefighter Andy Jones. The activities included; a road safety

Birchwood held its open day on Together" and Police Community Runcorn Fire Station hosted its annual sh Saturday 6th August and had a Support Officers. Children were able more than 1,500 members of the communi steady stream of well over 1,000 to complete a “6th Sense Treasure This year the responsibility of organising th visitors. Hunt” and get a goody bag as a and people visited throughout the day to see reward. Birchwood Fire Cadets and chip pan fire demonstration unit and Runcorn Firefighters gave demonstrations Fire Cadets held a raffle and there demonstration, as did Knutsford’s line rescue including road traffic collisions and was the opportunity to drive go-karts the aerial ladder platform. chip pan fire displays, and there and a driving simulator. There were Partner agency stalls shared were smoke tent activities where fire engines for people to view important safety information; conducting children enter an area filled with including a boat, hydraulic platform cancer screening, checking blood smoke to learn how to escape safely. and vintage fire engine. pressure and advising people on healthy A van provided catering and The British Red Cross attended eating. A group of dancers performed there was also a refreshments stall, a to promote their work with post fire and there were many fun stalls around Fire Fighters Charity stall, a DJ and support and Walkers Crisps gave out the station with the aim of raising money Cheshire Lowland Search and free crisps and let people sit up high for The Fire Fighters Charity; one stall in Rescue team who also did face in their Heavy Goods Vehicle cab, particular had a “Name the Bear” painting as well as showing their allowing drivers to experience how competition and Alex, Mia and Annie gear and rescue dogs. There was difficult driving a vehicle of that size were on hand to correctly guess his also a team from "Stronger can be. name “Freddie” and the lucky trio took him home as their prize. The Runcorn Showcase Event was a resounding success, this is down to hard work and commitment from everybody involved, a special thank you goes out to Runcorn Blue Watch and Fire Cadets who worked tirelessly throughout the day, as well as Halton Community Safety, Rob Everson, Tommy Bryan, Tony Perischine and all of the off duty personnel who chose to attend the event with their families. december • 2011 13 alert

In a slightly different venue to normal the station showcase event was held at Chester Racecourse combined with other attractions.

The day started out at a frantic pace with so many vehicles and personnel to organise. When the first members of the public started to arrive they were drawn by the unmistakeable red of the fire appliances. They were shown into the inflatable fire engine and given a talk about road and fire safety and told to pay attention so they can carry out the 'Fact Finder' quiz and receive a goody bag if they answer correctly. There was also the attraction of the vintage vehicles which gave a valuable insight into history and how much the modern demonstration, vehicles have evolved over the years. a chip pan demonstration and a variety of With all the other attractions on the day the gate at the Racecourse was information and charity stalls with partner almost 50,000 people. Special mention must be made to Marc Beechey who agencies including Age uk; Cheshire organised the event. Without his attention to detail and organisational skills it Police; the Youth Federation; Making would be very hard to run such an outstanding showcase event with so many Space; Respect; Deaf Support Network people visiting. with a signer; Advanced Motoring; St Johns Ambulance; Road Safety Reduction and the Walkers Crips HGV road safety vehicle. There were also modern and vintage appliances on display as well as the some specialist vehicles including an Hydraulic platform.

howcase event opening its doors to firefighter’s were ity. all ready to let the crowds in on time and were delighted to see he open day fell to Runcorn’s Blue Watch that people were queuing to get the live demonstrations, the impressive onto the station on a beautiful n Fire Cadets performing during their sunny day. unit who did an impressive display from Fire cadets with cadet leader Mark Brothwood, and station admin

managers Sandi Oldfield and Jo

Vickers did a fantastic job - both

with sourcing raffle prizes and

general admin and on the day

running busy stalls. Sandi also

starred in the Fireflies choir.

Operational firefighters ran two road traffic demonstrations with the audience totalling approximately 150 at both sessions. Crew Manager Andy Gray was on hand to talk the crowd through the process while firefighters Slack, James, Downey,

Bradley and Page did the hard work.

Advocates put on two chip pan

demonstrations and the hydraulic

platform was in attendance crewed

by Firefighter’s Tabor and Holmes

Andy Gray and Watch Manager Ian Pugh planned the event and it is estimated that £500 was raised for The Fire Fighters Charity. alert 14 december • 2011 Fit 4 Safety IN BRIEF

arents and children enjoyed a vehicle which included computers for day of learning about how to families to do their own online home IN THE PINK Cancer Research benefitted from Pprotect themselves from fire in safety assessments but staff were also staff at Headquarters foregoing Widnes. on hand with relevant fire safety normal uniform to “wear it Pink”. information. The event which took place at the They paid a fee to dress in the colour Warrington Road Children’s Centre, The fire engine proved to be the and £171.30 was raised on the day. was part of the ‘HELPS Fit 4 Safety’ main crowd-puller for the children. scheme. This initiative is being run by leader and Halton Borough Council in conjunction member of the Fire Authority Cllr. Rob with the Service. Polhill said, “It is good to see us Firefighters attended the event to working so closely together on the Fit help pass on some vital safety 4 Safety initiative to benefit families in messages to the eager audience. Halton.” Along with a fire engine the crew HELPs co-ordinator Carolyn brought a special tent for parents to McAuley added: “I’m sure everyone Garry Sawdy was in the pink and learn how to escape from a smoke- learned something and left with Workshops entered into the spirit filled home. There was also a resource information to keep their family safer.” where even the fire engine got in on the act!

COFFEE BREAK Crew Manager Gary Simpson and Road Safety the crew from Red Watch Widnes attended a coffee morning event which was part of "The Worlds Week in Widnes Biggest Coffee Morning" organised by the Macmillan’s Cancer Support Widnes firefighters joined forces with staff from ATS Tyres and Auto Glass charity. It was a great day with a for a special awareness event during National Road Safety Week. good turnout which included The Mayor of Halton Cllr Keith Morley Red Watch spoke to more than 115 drivers during the session which took who was there to accept cheques place outside the Asda supermarket on November 26. from local business's who were Watch Manager Jason Fletcher explained, “This was a really successful event supporting the event. There were that aimed to educate drivers about what they need to do to stay safe on the drinks, cakes and a raffle all roads, which included explaining why vehicle maintenance is so important.” provided by local residents to raise extra funds on the day. Firefighters managed to carry out basic safety checks on more than 115 cars. Each vehicle seen by the crew had its lights, windscreen wipers, windscreen wash and tyres checked. SURE START Watch Manager Fletcher added, “I must thank everyone involved in making the event a success including Crew Manager Stuart Pickering who put a lot of effort into making it happen. Thanks also goes to the other members of the Watch, FUN DAY volunteers and community safety team for their support.” Ellesmere Port’s Blue Watch visited the Sure Start Centre at Stanlaw People were also given a 'pack' containing windscreen wash, an ice scraper Abbey. This was a great event and further road safety information. attended by over 300 local residents. Almost half of the cars seen that day had some sort of minor defect that could Home safety advice was given out to have caused the driver safety issues on the road. These included windscreen parents whilst the children enjoyed chips and lights not working or faulty tyres. looking around the fire engine. december • 2011 15 alert Prestigious awards

he Service’s website has website, regardless of what disability The CIPR PRide Awards gained a prestigious they may have or what technology they recognising public relations success Taccessibility award by the use. and achievement and there were in Shaw Trust. excess of 1,000 entries to this year’s We will now be working hard to awards. The judging process is The Shaw Trust accessibility testing maintain these standards as both rigorous with a national panel of service is recognised as the most awards are subject to annual tests. industry experts assessing the comprehensive available. Rigorous A big ‘thank you’ to everyone shortlisted entries and choosing the automated checks of every web page involved in updating the website for the winners. were followed by practical testing effort you have put in throughout the using specialist technology by staff last year.” who are blind, deaf, have low vision, colour blindness, dyslexia, mobility The website has also been problems and learning difficulties. shortlisted in the 2011 Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) As well as the Shaw Trust award, PRide Awards in the Best Website our website has also achieved the category. Plain English Campaign Crystal Mark for the clarity of information on its Jane Wilson CIPR CEO said, “‘The website. CIPR PRide Awards celebrate the best PR and campaigns from the profession Tim Bevington, Head of across the UK. To be shortlisted for an Communications said, “We are Award demonstrates exemplary delighted to have gained these awards achievement, impact and value – for our website. The internet is a key immediately putting your work in the way for us to communicate with spotlight. Congratulations for reaching residents and businesses. It is vital this stage.” that everyone has equal access to our Over 100 years of firefighting ends at Woodford

his year over 100 years of firefighting came to an end with Tthe closure of the Fire Station on the site at Woodford Aerodrome near Poynton and to mark the occasion fire crews from Woodford and Poynton took part in a joint training exercise. "This really is the end of and era for us at Poynton" commented Watch Manager Kieran Merriman. "Over the years many of the firefighters we've had turning out for us here at Poynton have been either firefighters or engineers working at the Woodford site.” The training exercise was at BAe's specialist fire training rig which was built to simulate an aircraft fuselage. The rig is fitted with a pressurised fuel system to create a variety of different aviation firefighting scenarios. "This was a fantastic opportunity to experience a pressurised fuel fire," said Firefighter Georgina Goodwin. She went on to say, "The heat generated by the fuel was intense. It's been a valuable experience for all the Poynton crew". The site at Woodford has been a valuable training ground for Cheshire fire crews over the years. Sadly aircraft manufacture stopped on the site earlier this year and although the airfield remains open at the moment it will close later this year. alert 16 december • 2011 Pioneering project earns respect

irefighters are to help teach Warrington primary school Fchildren valuable life lessons in staying safe and being good citizens in a pioneering programme being introduced to the borough. ‘Primary RESPECT’ aims to help youngsters understand that their actions have consequences, the importance of following rules and the value of teamwork. They will also learn about safety in the home and on the roads and gain an insight into the work of Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service which runs the course. Cllr. Mike Biggin, Mayor of Warrington and member of Cheshire n Cllr. David Topping and Evan Morris with Steve Cullen, Deputy Chair of the Warrington Fire Authority said, “The Fire Authority Partnership and Cllr. Mike Biggin at the launch of ‘Primary RESPECT’ at Warrington is proud of its extensive youth Community Fire Station. engagement work. We have seen time and time again how beneficial this has had in primary schools in work is, not just in terms of the impact Ellesmere Port. it has on the young people but also their families and the wider community. The course comprises a two-hour session at Warrington and Birchwood “I am therefore delighted that the Community Fire Stations every week ‘Primary RESPECT’ course has been for six weeks. Children from eleven As the course is aimed at years 5 extended so that even more young different primary schools from year 5 and 6, a new logo was needed, so Neil people in Warrington will benefit from and 6 complete the course in mixed Hawkins, Design and Publications the work of our firefighters and youth groups of eight. Manager, handed a brief over to his ten teams.” year old daughter, Alisha Hawkins, A version of the course has already The programme is being funded by who created the final ‘Primary run successfully for 13-16 year olds for the Warrington Partnership for one Respect’ logo. It captures home and more than six years across Cheshire, year after the Service was able to road safety from a young perspective, Halton and Warrington. demonstrate the impact a pilot scheme which children would relate to. Visit to Bridgewater High

Sixth Form students from Stockton Heath’s Firefighter Andy Jones who gave the hard hitting Bridgewater High School received a hard-hitting safety presentation said, "We are keen to reduce the number of message in a bid to influence their future driving habits. collisions involving young people by showing the effects of dangerous driving through means of video footage. These Temporary Watch Manager David Rutter from the fire included safety adverts and real life victim/offenders station made contact with the college in order to give a interviews. Dangers covered were speeding, drink/drug frank and powerful talk about road safety. driving, showing off, using mobile phones and correct use Crew members displayed two work stations and of seatbelts." students got a chance to wear fire fighting Personal David commented, "The visit was a success and all Protection Equipment and also learn about Holmatro students learned the harsh reality of driving dangerously. cutting gear rescue equipment. We shall be holding more events here in the future." december • 2011 17 alert Go ape for rescue techniques irefighters from Cheshire Fire environment was hazardous and and Rescue Service and North restrictive for all concerned. West Ambulance Service staff F "The six members of the attended an exercise at “Go Ape” in HART team and 10 firefighters to practise took part in the exercise and specialist techniques so that they worked well to rescue the are prepared for every rescue casualty swiftly from the height.” eventuality. The exercise was made even Crews from Knutsford and more realistic as the Go Ape Fire Stations attended the staff acted as if it were outdoor adventure site in Northwich emergency incident and put and used equipment from the people into place to receive the Technical Rescue Unit vehicle to assist fire and ambulance vehicles as in the rescue of a “casualty” who was they arrived onsite and assist injured and stuck high up on the with the rescue operation. This adventure apparatus. also tested the company's in- The Hazard Area Response Team house emergency procedures, (HART) from North West Ambulance which were found to be faultless Service also assisted in the exercise on the day. and were able to use Go Ape's Andy added, "Go Ape's outdoor equipment to test their skills to assistance in offering the the limit. premises was instrumental in Watch Manager Andy Hallworth making this exercise as realistic as and I thank Cheshire Fire and Rescue who arranged the exercise said, "The possible and I would like to thank them for organising the exercise.” scenario was for a member of the for being so helpful.” Go Ape is situated amongst the public to become injured and trapped HART Leader Joe Barratt said, forest at Delamere and is an outdoor on a high platform and suffer “Exercises like this are vital to test the adventure site consisting of high wires, suspected neck and back injuries. team's response in the event of a real ladders, walkways, bridges and The aim of the exercise was to find life incident of this nature. It also tunnels which are made of wood, rope out how the two teams worked highlights the excellent partnership and super-strong wire and members of together in a situation where the working with other emergency services the public pay to use the complex as a recreational activity. Marina meets the Queen arrington based Advocate were all arranged into two lines I felt very happy and honoured Marina Smith attended a opposite each other so that the Queen to have had such an experience. It WBuckingham Palace could make her entrance through the really was fantastic.” Garden Party in recognition of her middle. Her Majesty was preceded by Marina Smith ongoing community work within the Beefeater Guards and when she Warrington area. appeared the band played the National Anthem. Here is Marina’s account of her special day: At this moment I felt extremely lucky, proud, and thrilled to see the “On arrival my friend and I made Queen at such close proximity. She our entrance through the main gate at made a welcome speech and thanked the Palace and went across the all of us for our work for the courtyard under the Palace balcony communities. and walked through to the garden. The Queen then retired to the Royal Two military bands were on the Marquee for tea. garden lawn playing music throughout and tea, cakes and sandwiches were I was then able to relax and stroll served in a large marquee. around the garden paying particular attention to the lake and rose garden. The guests were all invited as a It was an amazing afternoon and as a reward for voluntary service to their Russian person married and living in n Marina and friend at Buckingham local communities and at 3pm we Palace alert 18 december • 2011

he popular craze of growing moustaches during the month of TNovember for charity has yet again struck the Service. Throughout the county, watches and M departments have thrown away their razors for the month to raise money for prostate cancer research. As you can see some had more luck than others at growing their o Moustaches. n Ellesmere Port’s White Watch in all their glory - left to right Jason James, Andy Gray, David Kenny, Paul Slack, Ian Pugh, Clare Page, Graham Atkinson, Paul v Bradley, Mark Downey and Gary Williams.

e n Congleton’s B Watch show off their tache’s - James Groves, Phil Jones, Javon Heaney, Jon Martin and Tam Blair.

n Community fire Protection’s own Lee Shears m and Ian Kay join the Movember movement. b

n Wilmslow C Watch Mangement Team Pete e Lloyd and Pete Coan. Especially important to Pete Lloyd who father was treated for Prostate n A watch Congleton, left to right back row Cancer in 2007 and has two more months Ryan Swindells, Paul Johnson, Keith before the important 5 years clear stage is Whittingham, Andy Burgess, front row Craig r reached. Welch, Ian Pattison, Steve Seager. 20

n Green Watch Macclesfield at the end of their n Malpas Firefighters have renamed their village Movember campaign – Back row: Brian Battle, “Mo-pas” for the month of Movember - Giles 11 Dom Hulme, Phil Marke, Mick Behan, Richie (Blakey) Davies, John Hibbert, Mark Holden, Moores, front row - Jamie Burns, Matt Lloyd. Tim Watson and Pete Ellis. december • 2011 19 alert Blooming legacy THANKS hester residents of Newtown The initial phase of the garden BLUE WATCH are able to enjoy the great opened on Friday 4 November. Among Coutdoors right on their those attending were representatives MACC doorsteps thanks to the efforts of a from Pochin Construction which with a group of hardworking young people. number of associates kindly donated all {Thank you so much for your care the tools and equipment needed for the and expertise to help our son after A grassed area that forms the project, 20 tons of top soil, three tons his car accident in June in . boundary between Chester Community of stone and a project manager to help Fire Station and the former Newtown He was not expected to survive, but the young people’s vision become Bakery has been transformed to into after spending over three months in reality. green and tranquil space with raised Royal and over 24 hours flower beds, seating and gravel paths. worth of surgery we finally have him back home with us. We cannot The initial phase to open up the thank you enough for everything you site with access for disabled users and have done to help him back on the a commemorative gateway has been road to recovery. undertaken by the current participants | on the latest Prince's Trust Team Best Wishes Programme delivered by Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service. PRESTBURY Project Manager Paul Beaudoin who together with assistant Louise McMahon runs the 12-week personal SCOUTS development course from Chester Fire n Young people from Prince’s Trust {I wanted to thank the crew from Station said, “As part of the programme Group 50, personnel from Cheshire Red Watch who hosted our visit to the young people all aged between 16 Fire and Rescue Service, Cheshire Fire Macclesfield Fire Station on and 25 have to complete a project that Authority members, representatives Thursday 3 November. The benefits the local community. from Pochin Construction and local firefighters were all very friendly and residents celebrate the opening of the helpful, and the Scouts have all said "They have risen to the challenge first phase of the community garden at how much they enjoyed the evening, of designing and building something Chester Fire Station. especially being able to operate the that has not only brought them together fire hose and the guided tour around as a team, but will also be enjoyed by the fire engine. local people for many years to come.” | With best regards, Scout Leader - 1st Prestbury Show success THATCH Poynton Show beat the bad of the chip pan demonstration unit weather to once again attract and smoke tent both proving to be COTTAGE FIRE crowds from miles around. very effective at drawing in crowds, giving firefighters time to deliver some Last Thursday many teams from The event which is organised by { very important fire safety and fire across Cheshire and Poynton Horticultural and Agricultural prevention advise to a large audience. attended a fire affecting three thatch Society reguarly draws more than cottages in Farndon. 10,000 visitors. Thanks to Crew Manager Lawson for his organisational skills and helping Your team was there all night and for Fire crews from Poynton Fire hands from Advocate Emma Hudson, most of the following morning and Station have for many years taken this Stations Manager Paul Binyon and his couldn't have been any more opportunity to interact with local wife Beth. Fiona and Alan brought the accommodating, friendly and helpful people and raise awarenes of vital Vintage Fire Engine and Eddy in such horrendous circumstances. road and fire safety issues and this Edwards arrived with his every year the focus was the current I know you sometimes can be popular mascot Oscar the recruitment campaign and raising subject to adverse reaction from the Newfoundland. money for The Fire Fighters Charity. public, but let me tell you that this The Welfare Support Unit which is country would be a far worse place On the day of the show after an a new addition to Poynton was on if it wasn't for you guys. I can't tell early start and unfortunate weather show for the public, which sparked you how much I admire your bravery conditions the crew had set up what interest and firefighters were able to and hardwork - true heroes. promised to be a very popular and | explain when and why this appliance educational display. Fire Safety On behalf of everyone in Farndon, is used. presentations were given with the aid THANK YOU alert 20 december • 2011 Remembrance

arporley fire cadets had their first public outing where they took part in the Remembrance Sunday Tparade. All cadets turned up looking very smart and keen to show their respect by taking part. Joining the on-call firefighters, scouts, brownies and army cadets among others they started from the Royal British Legion and proceeded up the High Street before making their way into St Helens parish church. After the service Christian Larthe and Alana Thompson placed the wreath at the cenotaph. Winsford cadet unit took part in the Remembrance This year Cadets were given the opportunity to Parade on the town centre and also spent time on the 'run' their own area and also had the chance to work with Saturday helping raise funds by selling poppies on the and get their cadets on board with the shopping centre. appeal. Sandbach and Holmes Chapel Cadets have this year not The cadets worked so well together to rise to the only supported the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal but challenge and the resulting total reflects their hard work as it they have actually 'run' the appeal as organisers in Holmes exceeds last years monies raised. Chapel. Watch Manager, Their efforts have raised a whopping total of £5,459.19 Chris Rodaway from The cadets distributed poppies and tins to over 50 Chester, joined more locations in the town. They had to assemble the boxes, fill than 200 members of and staff a stall in Holmes Chapel town centre. the Civilian Services contingent to march onto Whitehall and take their place alongside the Cenotaph with Great Fire representatives from the armed services and many other dignitaries and distinguished organisations. He commented: “It was on this occasion my great privilege to represent the Service and to experience the Ceremony and symbolism of this momentous tribute to those lost in service to their country. Macclesfield’s Blue Watch made a visit to Puss Bank Whilst I could try to reflect in many words the imagery of Primary School to help them with their project about the day, "unforgettable" is all that is required.” the Great Fire of Years One and Two were learning all the facts about the blaze throughout the autumn term. They needed the firefighter’s help to burn down a special replica that they had built of London town to see how and why it spread so quickly. Blue Watch carried the 'town of London' outside as the children stood patiently ready to watch it burn. The crew set fire to the replica then extinguished it when the fire had spread through the streets. The children were fascinated to see how quick it did burn down. Later the Watch took the children inside to talk to them about fire safety and the dangers of fire followed by a tour around the fire engine. This was a very successful and fun afternoon. december • 2011 21 alert Growing partnership

he community garden at Runcorn Fire Station has sown the seeds for a unique Tpartnership. Children from Woodside School in Halton Lodge enjoyed growing vegetables so much at the site they wanted a plot of their own, so firefighters built them three raised beds. They also took the opportunity to start a reading project. The garden was officially opened by member of the Fire Authority Cllr. Rob Polhill who then presented book tokens to three lucky winners who took part in an art competition to draw the best vegetable garden. Blue Watch Manager Mark Bushell said, “We’re hoping to encourage boys to discover the joy of reading, they see us as role models and if firefighters think it’s cool to read then hopefully the children will have aspirations. We’re n The children show off their produce and hoping it will have an impact on anti-social behaviour and Cllr Polhill performs the official opening. . arson reduction when they are older.” The crews contact is already reaping benefits. Deputy Head Teacher Pauline Harrison said, “Feedback from the boys is very positive, they engaged with the firefighters instantly, talking to them about the books and sharing their experiences. “Growing tomatoes, cucumber, squashes, turnips, beans, potatoes and cabbages has nurtured a passion for food; in fact the whole process from planting, growing, tending, harvesting and cooking has been wonderful.” Runcorn firefighters from all four watches are now ‘adopting’ a school to promote reading and to further their community engagement. Service in chemical reaction The Service’s headquarters became the focus of a multi-agency exercise that aimed to test how we would respond to a chemical attack. Exercise Aliquot involved more than 20 appliances from Cheshire, Greater Manchester and Merseyside as well as specialist teams from the North West Ambulance Service and Cheshire Police. Exercise co-ordinator Stuart Devereux explained the scenario, “The Service’s headquarters was turned into a finance house owned by Aliquot finance for the event. The scenario was that a disgruntled employee had driven up to the building, gate-crashed a meeting and thrown packets of white powder about and glass vessels full of concentrated sulphuric acid, before activating an explosive device in his back-pack.” The emergency services then responded to the incident, treating casualties, sampling and testing the ‘white powder’ and setting up a joint decontamination unit. Station Manager Devereux added, “This exercise was used as an opportunity to work jointly with our neighbouring fire services, specialist Ambulance crews and Police. It was a good exercise, using live casualties with realistic injuries for the scenario presenting personnel with many dilemmas to overcome’ alert 22 december • 2011 Arrivals New starters ANNE-MARIE MOUNFIELD SEAN BARLOW Anne-Marie has rejoined the Service as a Sean is a Targeted Youth Support Worker Youth Support Worker having left the delivering the RESPECT programme. He Service in 2009 to travel extensively joins the Service from his role as a youth through South East Asia and Eastern and worker with Nokia which enabled him to Central Europe. She also worked for a work with young people in many schools chemical distribution company. across Cheshire. Farewells Leavers WM Timothy Day Crewe 25 Aug 10 yrs FF Matthew Bibby Northwich 5 Oct 10 yrs FF David Thomas Macclesfield 29 Aug 10 yrs FF Colin Egerton Macclesfield 9 Oct 5 yrs 2 mths FF Christopher Price Crewe 1 Sept 4 yrs Hannah Lloyd SHQ 17 Oct 2 yrs Susan Rattigan Warrington 9 Sept 2 yrs Rachel Allen CS 19 Oct 1 yr Karen Noden SHQ 30 Sept 5 yrs David Warren CS 30 Dec 3 yrs 8 mths Retirements CM Alan Parker Chester 2 Sept 11 yrs FF Tony Gleave Birchwood 6 Nov 29 yrs SM Kevin Fenney SHQ 27 Sept 26 yrs Liz Fish SHQ CFS 9 Dec 24 yrs FF Steve Buckley Knutsford 23 Oct 27 yrs FF Mark Tabor Chester 10 Dec 31 yrs WM Gary Webb CFP 26 Oct 31 yrs CM Keith Rowan Congleton 17 Dec 28 yrs Polish community event The Service engaged with over 120 from all unitary areas came to have Polish people during a special fun, integrate with local services, share awareness event held in Northwich. traditions and promote Polish culture. The event was organised by One of the biggest attractions was Migrant Community Advocates Gosia the chip pan fire demonstration Sasinska, Karen Hollinghurst and provided by Barrie Green. The Carol Keen as part of a team project to emphasis for the safety message was engage the polish community in cooking safely, winter safety driving Northwich. awareness and approaching members of the public for Home Safety They joined forces with the local Assessment visits. Polish Parish Club in an effort to increase the awareness of home safety and the work of the Service. Gosia explained, “The event was really popular with activities that included a fire safety drawing competition, games, the chip pan fire demonstration, traditional Polish cuisine and even a national ballet performance.” Local crews and Fire Authority member Cllr. Keith Musgrave also attended the event to support local partners and engage specially with the children to deliver fire safety messages. The event was great success. Families december • 2011 23 alert Firefighters remember 9/ 11

irefighters from Birchwood, Northwich, Winsford and FWidnes set out to raise money for the Fire Fighters Charity during memorials to those who died in the 9/11 terrorist attacks ten years ago. Birchwood’s on call contingent rowed 343 kilometers as a relay team over an eight hour period. Twelve on call staff ensured that all four machines were constantly in full flow. In the first two hours no one posted a time of over 22 minutes for their 5k block. By 11 o’clock the rowers were starting to flag and times starting to drop. Staff at the ASDA stores must n Frodsham Cadet Lauren have seen the lull as they turned up Yarwood, Sandbach Cadet with bottled water and about half a Luke Tindall and FF Danielle tonne of bananas! Then crews from Burgess laid wreaths at St Stockton Heath arrived and completed Paul’s Cathedral memorial 30 kilometers before leaving. They also service on behalf of CFRS managed to post the fastest time of the day with 5 kilometer being rowed in a Blue Watch from Widnes took part time of 17m 56s. in a Charity Hose Run. Four firefighters set themselves the challenge to each run out 38 lengths of hose which was approximately the combined height of both the World Trade centres and even Widnes Station Manager Andy Royle dusted off his gloves to do his turn.

n Looking their best after a Boots make- over! Northwich and Winsford firefighters n The team and helpers took part in a charity ladder climb when The crews eventually completed the they took turns to climb up the drill distance by 3.30pm with the total time tower a total of 110 times, covering a taken to complete 343k being 24 hours distance greater than the 1000m height 59 minutes and 25 seconds. Six of both World Trade Centre Buildings. members of the on call managed to Crewe Manager Ronnie Moore said, row more than 30 kilometers in the day n FF Paul Doodson, CM Paul Rostance, “We really wanted to do something to FF Stuart Mackenzie, FF Chris Cook - no small feat. mark the event and show our respects to those who died in the terrible events The event took place at Widnes of 2001. All the money raised will go Shopping Park and the firefighters were towards the Fire Fighters Charity. We cheered on by all the passers-by. The would also like to thank the staff a hose run took 1 hour 40 minutes to Domino’s Pizza on Kingsmead for complete and raised £350 for The supporting the event and providing Firefighters Charity. refreshments.” The staff at Boots chemist made their contribution to the fundraising but only when some of the firefighters A big “thank you” to everyone who agreed to have a make-over in the supported the crews during the day, store. As you can see from the pictures especially their families who worked the firefighters were very keen to help tirelessly shaking buckets and wiping out! brows. The total raised to The Fire Overall the crews were pleased that Fighters Charity was over £1,000. the event was such a great success. alert 24 december • 2011 SPORT & WELFARE • SPORT & WELFARE • SPORT & End to the trip & Welfare Winsford Firefighters Martin Sport Warburton and Paul Cowin completed their gruelling bike race challenge on the Isle of Man in Getting September raising funds for The Fire Fighters Charity. Paul reports, “It was a very nice emotional day but the race was very hard. I finished in a time of 5 hours 1 min The Learning and Development and Martin in 6 hours 48min. department marked World Health Day 2011 by promoting an awareness of “There were 1400 people in the Emotional Intelligence. race and several hundred spectators cheering us around the course and the ground was hard going as it was very Staff produced a variety of information boggy at times.” Undeterred the pair are planning to do the same race next year and resources which helped people to try to beat their times. discover more about how to develop Emotional Intelligence. We are still fundraising so if anyone still wants to donate please go to www.justgiving.com/winsfordfirefightersend2end As part of this Awareness Campaign a competition was launched whereby team members were required to listen to a podcast and identify three of the five characteristics of Emotional Intelligence Great North Run identified in the Podcast. The correct answers were: Self Awareness – the ability to understand success yourself, your strengths and development Luke Garrett, a Firefighter on areas and how others see you. Crewe’s Blue Watch ran the Great Self Regulation – the ability to think before North Run in September wearing a you act. 50lb weighted back pack in aid of Motivation – the drive to work and to the Anthony Nolan Trust. Luke succeed. raised over £500 for the charity and completed the course in 2 hours 53 Empathy – the ability to understand other minutes and 52 seconds. n Luke and daughter Marley-Rose at the people’s feelings and viewpoints. finish of the race Also running the Great North Run Social Skills – communicating and relating were Caroline Wathen from the Corporate Intelligence to others. Unit and Erin Fulton from Corporate Communications The winner was Liz Parry who received who raised over £1,200 for Leukaemia and Lymphoma two of ‘Daniel Golemans’ key texts - Research in the process. Both were extremely grateful Emotional Intelligence: Why it Can Matter for all money donated and also the cold drinks in the More Than IQ and Working with Emotional pub at the end, with special thanks to Matt Hancock for Intelligence. his amazing training plan that got them both from their usual run for last orders to completing a half marathon! End

of Throughout the Alert there are a number of “hidden” Rudolph’s. (not including the above). If you know how many are hidden, e-mail Year your answer by Friday 20 January 2012 to [email protected]. The winner, selected at random, will win a QUIZ £25 voucher.