NZFBI: Learning in the Field
In June, Devonport Volunteer Fire Brigade hosted a New Zealand Fire Brigades’ Institute Field Day, and 50 participants from as far away as Invercargill were given a rare and interesting experience on some specialist topics that aren’t part of the standard firefighter training regime.
Participants toured various areas of the Naval Base, including the Navy Drydock, the underground fuel installation, and the HMNZS Wellington warship. For many, the Naval Damage Control School was the highlight of the day - giving them an opportunity to learn about how the Navy approaches and attacks fires. They even got to take part in a live fire exercise in the Fire Unit, a mock ship with compartments that are very similar to what you would find on a Naval ship.
“I have had a lot of people who attended ask about using the Damage Control School for training exercises because they found it useful in training for compartment fires,” said Mark Buchanan, a member of the host committee.
Other topics of the day included Special Fixed Fire Systems on board, including Gas Flood Suppression Systems, Fixed Foam Installation in the bulk fuel store, and damage control on board the warship.
“It was great to be able to pass techniques and information onto the NZFS about how an organisation like the Navy fights fires - especially when they are in the middle of the ocean and have no help available,” said Buchanan.
“No matter what environment you’re working in, you need to expect the unexpected and know what systems are used in your areas and how to use them. That’s one of the key things we hope people took away.”
For more information on the NZFBI and field days, click here.
To see more photos, visit our photo gallery.