High Peak MP Robert Largan paid a visit to Buxton Fire Station to observe a training exercise and discuss the evolving challenge facing Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service.

Robert Largan MP met with Mark King, the Station Manager, Paul Hawker, the Group Manager for Derbyshire Dales and High Peak, and members ‘White Watch’ who were on duty during his visit to the station on Staden Lane.

After a tour of the station, the High Peak MP discussed with local firefighters what can be done to make it easier for firefighters to carry out their important work, particularly considering the upcoming White Paper on Fire Reform.

Robert inspected two Fire Engines, a Water Rescue Unit that is used for rescuing people and animals from incidents involving water and a Water Carrier which is used for transporting water from a source to an incident where there is no or a limited supply of water for firefighting operations. 

The High Peak MP also observed a training exercise, where firefighters from White Watch entered a simulated house fire to rescue 3 trapped inhabitants. The inhabitants being dummies. 

Robert Largan MP for High Peak commented:

“Throughout the pandemic, Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service have played an essential role in the national effort to tackle Coronavirus, including helping other emergency services, aiding vulnerable people and supporting the NHS. 

“It is important to remember that this is, of course, on top of their usual vital firefighting duties.

“Firefighters have to train very hard for a huge variety of different circumstances, especially in a rural area like the High Peak which brings extra challenges with moorland fires and water rescue incidents at reservoirs and  disused quarries.

“I want to thank everyone at Buxton Fire Station and Derbyshire Fire & Rescue for their hard work in keeping us all safe.