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Mayor visits joint Navy and Fire Service exercise

The exercise saw reserves from HMS Sherwood, the East Midlands only RNR unit and fire crews from across Nottinghamshire come together in order to practice their joint response to a major incident at the RNR’s Chilwell base.

HMS Sherwood’s Operations Officer, Lieutenant Commander Rod Grant, explained: “Partnering with local organisations like the Fire Service is really important because not only does it give us a chance to improve skills such as First Aid but it also allows the Fire Service to gain more experience in responding to a major incident in a secure area.

“Having the Mayor visit at this time is a real honour because it gives us a chance to show how we work together with local organisations and we were proud to present him with an image take during our Freedom of the City parade.”

The exercise with the Fire Service involved responding to a simulated major incident at HMS Sherwood’s base and crews from across Nottinghamshire took part. It allowed the Fire Service to practice responding to a major incident but also allowed the Reservists to rehearse their emergency drills and test their First Aid skills.

Reservists practicing thier First Aid skills during the exercise

Kev Tedds, Crew Manager at Stapleford Fire Station, who directed the exercise said: “As a Service, we support the Armed Forces Covenant, so it is only right that we continue to build strong relationships with our colleagues in the Royal Navy and HMS Sherwood.

“This exercise has been very beneficial for both parties, especially for the on-call firefighters involved, as it is vital to give the teams on-going training and test them at exercises such as this. This means we can be the best we can be when it comes to dealing with genuine emergencies, helping to keep the communities we serve safe.”

Co-operation between the Fire Service and HMS Sherwood will continue in the future, with further exercises currently in the planning stages.

During his visit the Mayor witnessed the exercise but also had a chance to discover more about the type of training the reservists undertake.

To find out more about HMS Sherwood visit www.royalnavy.mod.uk or email navymr-sherwooduwo@mod.gov.uk