Nine new trainee Fire Control Operators - now known as Firefighters (Control) yesterday graduated from a seven week intensive course and will be taking up their positions in the South Wales Fire and Rescue Control Room at the organisation’s headquarters in Pontyclun next week.

The nine new recruits went through a rigorous recruitment procedure, and were selected from some 350 hopeful applicants.  During their training course, the nine were challenged in every direction and, through a series of written and practical tests, proved their skills in call handling, keyboard techniques, decision making, radio technique and interpretation of information.  

At the first graduation ceremony of its kind, following the largest single intake of Control Operators the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service has ever had, family and friends of the nine trainees joined representatives of the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, for a course overview by the trainees themselves, addresses by Senior Officers, and the presentation of the ‘Highest Achiever’ award.    This award, which recognises outstanding achievement in all areas of the training course, went to 20-year-old year old Firefighter (Control) Chloe Thomas, of Rhiwbina, Cardiff.    Chloe was presented with the award for her ‘ unselfish willingness to help others, and her ‘ infectious enthusiasm for learning.’

Andy Marles, Chief Fire Officer of the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service praised the efforts and hard work of the new trainees.

“The role of the Fire and Rescue Service has changed considerably over recent years, and the role of the Firefighter (Control) has had to change to reflect many new demands made on the Service”, he said.

Andy added:  ““Not only are they the first point of contact for the public, answering emergency calls and mobilising fire appliances, but they also take an active part in bringing incidents to successful conclusions through the use of specialised call handling techniques, and educating the public in staying safe from fires and other emergencies.  Taking an average of around 50,000 emergency calls a year, often from people who are frightened and panicked, they have to maintain a cool, calm and professional image at all times”.