Backdraught fire-blast training plan at station

Oldham firefighters could soon be experiencing the terrifying experience of a backdraught explosion at their station in Lees Road.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service is to install six training units at the station that will simulate severe building fires and prepare crews for the real thing.

A planning application has already been submitted to Oldham Council, which if granted, could see firefighters using the highly-realistic training facility as soon as next month.

The service is now carrying out a consultation process and residents are being urged to drop in and check out the plans.

Director of emergency response, Tony Ciaramella, said: “We want to make sure our firefighters are as safe as they can possibly be when attending real fires.

“These new units will give them a good opportunity to train in controlled and realistic conditions, so that when they do attend the real thing they are well prepared. Incidents involving flashovers and backdraughts are being increasingly linked with firefighter deaths and injuries.”

Firefighters will use the units around three times a week, with training sessions lasting around an hour. A special product called Smart Ply OSB3 will be burnt.

Fire Authority chairman Councillor Paul Shannon said: “To address any concerns the local community may have, we asked an impartial organisation to model the predicted emissions and air quality impacts.

“They found no detrimental effects or changes to the air quality levels. By using Smart Ply, we feel we are using the healthiest and most environmentally friendly product on the market.”

A drop-in session to see the plans will be held on Saturday between 2pm-4pm.