On 09 September, Evacq8 Risk Solutions assisted the fire team from Meadow Feeds from Randfontein in preparing for the MRG Fire Team Competition that kicks of later this month.   Team members skills were refined in their knowledge, understanding, handling and operation of hydrant operations, branch pipe operations, hose running techniques and the correct application of protective water spray and attack cone patterns.  We also focused on methods of identifying the correct type of fire extinguishers and the practical application of portable fire extinguishers.   It was a glorious day and the team members showed exceptional team work, spirit and willingness to learn.   Thank you to management of Meadow Feeds Randfontein and Marlene van der Merwe from CRM Training for making this day possible.

Fighting flammable liquid fire with large diameter layflat hoses, or fire hoses as they are more commonly referred to, requires special skill, coordination and teamwork.  The team captain needs to learn about fire ground command & control to ensure the team applies their knowledge and skills correctly in a very disciplined manner.  After all, these dedicated men and women put their lives on the line, to protect the lives of their colleagues, and protecting company property and the environment.  

Fire extinguisher drills at the fire ground is done with full protective gear, however in the workplace, this is a completely different scenario.  A fire extinguisher is the first line of defence intended to fight incipient stage fires within the first few moments of being discovered.  Collecting protective gear from a remote position may result in huge time delays which can cause a fire to grow out of control and beyond the ability to extinguish it with a portable extinguisher.   This exercise however, tests the ability, agility and skills beyond the basic level of fire fighting and demonstrate teamwork, coordination and leadership from the team captain.