Mid and West Wales Firefighters Win Top Honors at National Challenge

Firefighters from the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service have been awarded the title of Best Breathing Apparatus (BA) Team at the National Breathing Apparatus Challenge (NBAC). This prestigious event took place on October 12, 2023, at the Fire Service College in Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire. In addition to being recognized as the best BA team, they also earned the overall title of Overall Best Team, distinguishing themselves among 19 competing fire and rescue services from across the United Kingdom.

The winning team, comprised of Dominic Norcross as Officer in Charge, Lee Rees as Driver and Fireground Setup, Luke Fisher, Tim Frost (BA Team members), and Morgan Lewis as BA Entry Control Officer, delivered a performance marked by exceptional operational skill and teamwork. Their strong commitment to firefighter safety played a crucial role in their success.

Challenging Scenarios and Rigorous Assessment

The NBAC is a nationally recognized event that promotes best practices in BA procedures and incident command, sponsored by Draeger UK and supported by the Fire Fighters Charity. Each of the five-person teams faced a realistic, high-pressure scenario simulating a property fire. They had just 30 minutes to extinguish the blaze and rescue any casualties, putting their skills to the test under intense conditions.

Teams were evaluated by National Assessors from various fire and rescue services across the UK. Judges assessed the teams on criteria including Command and Control, technical knowledge, and practical firefighting skills. The Mid and West Wales team excelled in all these areas, showcasing their preparedness and expertise.

Group Manager Stuart Bate, Head of Training Delivery for the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, commented on the achievement, stating, “This achievement reflects the dedication, professionalism, and rigorous training of our firefighters. To be recognized as the best among such strong competition is a testament to the high standards we uphold in Mid and West Wales. We’re incredibly proud of the team’s success.”

Importance of Collaboration and Best Practices

The NBAC serves not only as a competitive platform but also as a vital venue for sharing best practices, enhancing firefighter safety, and fostering collaboration among UK fire services. By participating in such events, fire departments can improve their operational readiness and response capabilities, ultimately benefiting the communities they serve.

For further details about the National Breathing Apparatus Challenge, interested parties can visit the official website: www.nbac.co.uk. This event continues to play an essential role in advancing the standards of firefighting across the nation, ensuring that teams are well-prepared for emergencies.