TWO Northfield firefighters who traveled to Lanzarote to compete in a rescue challenge had to come to the real life aid of an injured women before competing.
Lee Renenhan and Andrew Connolly of West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS), who were set to compete in the World Rescue Challenge, were almost late to the competitions opening ceremony after encountering an injured woman in the lobby of their hotel.
Lee and Andrew tended to the casualty who was badly injured after trapping her arm in a door.
They used their trauma and patient skills to keep her calm until further help arrived, before traveling off to compete against more than 30 firefighting teams from around the world.
Lee and Andrew, who ranked 19th overall in the competition, were the first trauma team to take to the field in this year’s international event.
They faced a realistic scenario of treating a casualty with a severe and challenging leg injury. Judges praised their teamwork and high-level skills.
Their second test, two days later, involved treating two people injured in an industrial accident. The judges were again positive, praising their teamwork and calmness.
Lee said: “It was a fantastic opportunity for us to showcase our skills and add to our trauma knowledge.
“Working with some of the best fire and rescue services in the world was amazing.
“We’ve definitely returned with more knowledge and skills than when we left, which can only be a positive when we respond to incidents here in the West Midlands.”
Andrew added: “Whilst there was an element of friendly competition throughout the week, there were also several workshops which gave us an opportunity for further learning.
Lee and Andrew’s preparation now turns to the United Kingdom Rescue Organisation (UKRO) Trauma competition, which will be hosted by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service next year.
