"Through intensive training at the Newcastle International Fire Training Academy, our twenty-three brave recruits will be forged into a formidable team, armed with specialised skills to safeguard our international airport," said Minister of National Security Michael Weeks, JP, MP.

On Saturday, 5 August, the Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service (BFRS) sent 23 recruit firefighters (including two female officers) to participate in a specialised aircraft firefighting course at the Newcastle International Fire Training Academy in the UK.

Over the next six weeks, the recruits will undergo intensive training that covers a wide range of essential firefighting techniques specific to aircraft incidents. 

This comprehensive course aims to equip them with the necessary expertise to respond effectively to emergencies involving aircraft within our jurisdiction.

Minister Weeks added: "This commitment to excellence reflects our dedication to ensuring Bermuda's utmost safety and protection. We extend our gratitude to our local instructors and the Newcastle Academy for their partnership in shaping our future firefighters.

"The Government of Bermuda and the Ministry of National Security are committed to ensuring sufficient resources at the airport to maintain operations that will meet international standards.”  

The Newcastle International Fire Training Academy is a world-class aircraft rescue firefighting training facility with highly qualified instructors. 

The newly appointed firefighters will be required to demonstrate competence in the following areas:

• Saving and preserving endangered life at incidents
• Extinguishing fires at aircraft incidents 
• Maintaining operational readiness of resources 
• Site and position vehicles at an incident site
• Implement action to resolve operational incidents 
• Contain and control spillage or release of hazardous material
• Recognise airside hazards and minimise risks 

On successfully completing their training, each recruit will be issued a certificate of competence in line with CAP 699 (the standards for the competence of Rescue and Firefighting Service personnel, developed by the UK Civil Aviation Authority).

Chief Fire Officer Dana Lovell stated: "The Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service takes great pride in investing in developing its personnel. 

"This unique opportunity to participate in the aircraft firefighting course in Newcastle reflects the commitment to ensuring the highest standards of safety and protection for our island community. 

"As we applaud the remarkable journey our recruits are undertaking, we must also recognise the invaluable contribution of our local instructors who have nurtured and prepared these recruits for this significant endeavour.

“Their guidance and mentorship have laid the foundation for these brave individuals to excel on the international stage. This collaboration between our local experts and the esteemed Newcastle International Fire Training Academy is a testament to the strength of partnership in shaping the finest firefighting service for Bermuda."