We were greeted by Senior Fire Officer Johnny McCaughey and two members of his team Andrew and Josh who showed us into their briefing room where they staged a mock 999 alert call, triggering all the lights in the building, sounding a siren and lighting all the screens with the details relating to the incident.
They explained that as soon as this alert is received they have 90 seconds to exit the station. Josh then demonstrated a pole decent from the second floor accommodation.
Andrew briefed us on the history of the station and how in our troubled past this was the busiest station in the UK. The station changed location in 1992 and now deals with a staggering 3000 calls a year.
The fire appliance was our next stop and we were given a detailed account of the equipment they carry and the relevant uses.
Johnny explained they only carry a maximum capacity of 1800 litres of water lasting only last two minutes, and the importance of finding hydrants to tap into when fighting bigger fires
They explained about their clothing, breathing apparatus and demonstrated all the portable tools they carry, each with an important purpose.
We finished the night with coffee and Sharon's homemade buns. A great night was had by all.
