Deputy PFCC welcomes 13 new firefighters to service at Passing Out Parade

Joel Charles, Deputy Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, today welcomed 13 new firefighters to Essex County Fire and Rescue Service at a Passing Out Parade.

The new firefighters, who will take up roles at stations across the county, were welcomed to the Service in front of family and friends at the Essex County Fire and Rescue Service (ECFRS) Training Centre at Witham Fire Station.

Mr Charles said: “Over the next few years, the Service will play a central role in offering continuity as the way Greater Essex is governed at a local level is set to change. Devolution and local government reorganisation both present an opportunity for the Service to build on the community engagement work already carried out.

“Everything you do from this point forward as a firefighter will set a positive example to the public. As the next generation of firefighters this county has to offer, always act as ambassadors for the Service.

“Take enormous pride in what you have achieved so far. Take up opportunities to learn and develop as you progress in your careers. Look forward to the future — it is your actions that will shape the future of firefighting for many years to come.”

The new firefighters have completed a rigorous 17‑week training programme covering theoretical and practical aspects of ladder use, fire engine operation, equipment handling and working at height.

The specialised programme has included training on breathing apparatus, road traffic collisions, flashover and backdraught, fire protection, decontamination and trauma. The group has also spent time with the ECFRS Safer Communities and Technical Fire Safety teams to understand the work carried out within Essex communities.