Cycle Experience, part of the TTC Group, has provided training for London firefighters as part of a pilot scheme to expand the London Fire Brigade’s use of bikes.
Under the scheme fire crews will patrol areas of north-east and west London next spring and summer to identify fire hazards such as abandoned cars and fly tipping, which will be removed to cut down the number of opportunist fires. They will also ride to business and residential properties to check fire equipment and carry out normal fire prevention duties.
Firefighters have been trained in safer cycle skills in a series of cycle training sessions at Barking and Feltham fire stations over the past two months. All crews received Bikeability Level 3 safer cycling awards.
A spokesperson from London Fire Brigade said: “We hope to reduce opportunist fires by removing rubbish and other potential fire hazards, and cycling was felt to be one of the most efficient uses of transport.
“Bikes provide a level of freedom and agility which will enable us to keep our area safe as we will be on the look out for fire hazards. Our firefighters’ safety is of utmost importance, hence the decision to get professional training in line with national standards.”
Ian Ramsay, Cycle Experience’s London regional co-ordinator, said a number of UK fire and rescue services had implemented the cycle training initiative. “Delegates from our training sessions found the Bikeability course very informative and the level of knowledge provided by our instructors on cycling safely on the road extremely useful,” he said.
For more information contact Ian Ramsay on 07790 491784.
Would be a lot easier and quicker and more ground could be covered by the use of a small scooter or motorcycle. Certainly much more efficient.
bob craven Lancs
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