18 newly-trained firefighters welcomed to service by Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner

Posted 20th December 2024

Roger Hirst, Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, welcomed 18 newly-trained firefighters to Essex County Fire and Rescue Service today, alongside Rick Hylton, Chief Fire Officer. 

Welcoming the firefighters to their new careers at Witham Service Training Centre today, Mr Hirst spoke to the new recruits and family and friends invited to this special day.

Mr Hirst said: “The public wish for us to be there for them, but more than this they want us to prevent fires, protect the vulnerable and reduce the risk of emergencies. 

“This is about prevention, protection and response, thinking about what the role of a firefighter should be and could be. As new recruits you will help shape the service, the work we do with communities and the difference we make.” 

The ceremony was given a demonstration of putting out a fire in a high-rise building, before firefighters demonstrated their rescue skills in the event of a road accident. The ceremony was also treated to the fire service dogs showing how they help the service.