WMFS team return from World Rescue Challenge in Lanzarote

Northfield firefighters Lee Renenhan and Andrew Connolly are back in England after competing in the latest edition of the World Rescue Challenge.

Their competition started shortly after arriving as the duo came to the real-life aid of an injured woman in a non-challenge scenario.

As Lee and Andrew left their hotel to head off to the opening ceremony in Lanzarote, they encountered a casualty in the reception area – a woman badly injured after trapping her arm in a door.

The WMFS duo used their trauma and patient skills to keep the casualty calm until further help arrived. They went on to compete against 30-plus teams from around the world, ranking nineteenth overall.

Lee and Andrew were the first trauma team to take to the field in this year’s international event, when 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.

Speaking after their trip home, 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.

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.