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On 25 June 2015, a firefighter fell seriously ill while taking part in a training scenario wearing breathing apparatus at our Service Training Centre in Maresfield.

A joint investigation was carried out with the Fire Brigades Union.

Our “Lessons Learned” report sets out the key findings of this investigation.

Lessons Learned Report

Chief Fire Officer Gary Walsh said: “Every Fire and Rescue Service has a moral and legal duty to do all it can to protect its staff from harm. This was an incredibly difficult time for the firefighter and his family and we sincerely apologise for the distress this accident caused. We are thankful that the firefighter concerned has made a good recovery.”

“We are determined that our staff and the public can be confident that East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service takes firefighter safety seriously. As Chief Fire Officer I will make a public commitment on behalf of the service to prioritise this and continue to deliver improvements wherever and whenever we are able.”

A number of changes were made immediately after the incident and further changes are now being implemented.

The Health and Safety Executive were informed at the time and have been updated throughout.