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Fire crew learn more about life in the reserves

The visit, which was organised by firefighter Craig Wagstaff who is also a reservist at HMS Sherwood, saw Notttinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service’s (NFRS) White Watch from Edwinstowe show the ship’s company around the fire engine and its firefighting equipment, while learning more about firefighting in the RNR.

Craig has been a reservist for three years, and organised the visit to bring both of his roles together after his reserve unit asked if they could learn more about modern methods of firefighting.

Craig said: “Being a firefighter and a Reservist complement each other well, and both roles rely on excellent team work to get the job done, as well as self-discipline.

“My colleagues at the station are incredibly supportive of me and my role in the RNR and have said that they thoroughly enjoyed the evening, even commenting on how engaging the unit were and how eager they were to ask questions to learn more about both different roles and the kind of equipment used in each.

“I am now in my 20^th year with NFRS and without their support, I would not be able to continue in my reservist role, and I am extremely grateful to them.

“The Service has a reservist policy which allows me to fulfil my annual commitment to the RNR, and while I have not yet been deployed through my role as a reservist, I look forward to what the future holds for me in both roles.”

NFRS has a history of supporting the Reserve Forces, with a recent wholetime recruitment campaign opened up to members of the Armed Forces from anywhere in the country.

Lieutenant Commander Rod Grant from HMS Sherwood explained: “All Naval personnel are trained in firefighting techniques, so it was good to see the civilian equipment in use and compare procedures. We received lots of positive feedback about the visit from those who took part and want to thank the fire service for taking the time to visit us.”

Warrant Officer Class 1 Sean Jones from HMS Sherwood said: “Firefighting in the naval service is a key element for all serving personnel; much of the equipment used by the Royal Navy is comparable with the Fire Service.

“HMS Sherwood was delighted to host the Fire Service and get hands on with some awesome bit of kit. AB Craig Wagstaff was pivotal in setting up this visit and we very much appreciate his input”.