Weighty challenges for firefighters in Suffolk

The British Firefighter Challenge will take place in Suffolk (Photo: Kay Zieba Photography)

When: 27th & 28th July 2018, 9am – 5pm

Where: Arc Shopping Centre, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk

£: Free to watch

What is it?

The British Firefighter Challenge 2018 will take place in Bury St Edmunds on Friday 27th and Saturday 28th July.

This tough event will see firefighters complete a series of challenges including the Hose Drag, Container Carry and the Casualty Rescue.

The British Firefighter Challenge is a not for profit sporting event, open to operational firefighters across the UK. This year 240 competitors have registered to take part, from 14 Nations as far as India and Australia; as well as more than 40 UK Fire and Rescue Services across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

The event raises money for the Firefighters Charity, and this year will be aiming to raise £10,000.

Racing onto the next challenge (Photo: Kay Zieba Photography)

The firefighters must complete eight challenges and must compete in their protective gear.

The challenges begin with the Stair Ascent, where the competitor must get to the top of a three storey tower in the quickest possible time.  At the top of the tower the second challenge, the Hose Haul, takes place.

For the Hose Haul, a 70m hose must be pulled up over the guard rail and placed in a box.  The Stair Descent then takes place, where the firefighter must descend back down the tower, making sure they step on every step, with one hand on the handrail at all times.

Next up is the Keiser Force, where a heavy weight is hit with a heavy hammer.  Then comes the Hose Drag and Hose Make-up, consisting of dragging a 70m hose, and rolling up a long hose and placing it in a box.  For the Container Carry, four 20kg foam containers must be carried to the designated area.

The final challenge is the Casualty Rescue, involving a 70kg dummy, which must be dragged over the finish line.

The challenge is a competition for firefighters, organised by firefighters, and is free to go along and watch.  There will also be Fire Safety education, community stands, food, beverages, and children’s entertainment.

More info: www.britishfirefighterchallenge.co.uk and www.facebook.com/britishfirefighterchallenge