Chiltern International Fire celebrated last week the 100^th burn in its 40ft attack unit, designed for Compartment Fire Behaviour Training, with the Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service (BFRS). The CFBT demo unit, used for initial training on gas cooling techniques, also celebrated its 100^th burn on the same day.

The facility has been in virtually constant use since its launch last year. It also includes a concrete-lined two-storey residential house adapted for Positive Pressure Ventilation training. Chiltern Fire has worked closely with BFRS to create conditions as close to ‘real life’ as possible. Terry Healy, lead instructor on tactical ventilation for BFRS said, ‘There is no doubt that the most effective training to face a real fire is to use real fire.’

BFRS is one of the leaders in undertaking hot smoke ventilation training and many of its firefighters are now undergoing the programme for a second time. ‘We know that the training is working, as we can see a big improvement in standard in controlling the conditions of a fire. We are developing an increasingly skilled firefighting service and having this facility on our doorstep has been a significant factor in that.’

Conveniently situated close to the M40, in the countryside near High Wycombe, the Chiltern Fire facility means that BFRS can offer training every year, instead of every two to three years, as was the case when they had to travel further afield. Senior Instructor Ken Hollis said, ‘We now get much more out of the day and of course we are taking fire engines off the road for a shorter time, too, which is more cost-effective.’

Chiltern Fire and BFRS are now working together to take the facility forward. Mr Healy added, ‘The more training we undertake, the more we understand the needs of our firefighters. The close relationship we have with Chiltern Fire allows us the flexibility to adapt the facility to our needs. Another plus point is the rural location. ‘Some fire brigades have had to stop using fire and smoke because of the location of their training facility.’