Nearly 40 fire and rescue teams from across the UK, along with a special guest team from Ukraine, faced off at this year’s UK Rescue Organisation (UKRO) Festival of Rescue. Hosted by West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS), the free two-day event energized Birmingham’s Smithfield city centre with action-packed competitions and impressive rescue demonstrations.
The festival featured gripping challenges and new competitions including rope rescue from height, water rescue, trauma care, urban search and rescue in collapsed structures, and extricating casualties from crashed vehicles.
This year also saw the debut of the UK Firefighter Fitness Challenge and a dedicated contest for Fire Cadets, adding fresh excitement to the festival.
“We’re super-excited to welcome firefighters from across the country and show our communities their incredible skills,” said Area Commander Samantha Burton, festival coordinator for WMFS. “Firefighters do far more than battle blazes – the UKRO Festival shines a light on their rescue expertise. It’s a chance to learn, compete, and inspire.”
WMFS Chief Fire Officer Phil Loach added: “Hosting the festival in Birmingham has been a privilege. Congratulations to all winners. This event isn’t just about competition – it fosters collaboration and knowledge sharing that boosts services nationwide.”
The top teams and winners were revealed as follows:
- Fire Cadets Casualty Care Challenge – Best Overall Team: West Midlands
- Firefighter Fitness Challenge 18-30: Tim Frost
- Firefighter Fitness Challenge 31-40: Ivan Horbacz
- USAR Best Overall Team: London
- Water Challenge Best Overall Team: South Wales
- Rope Rescue Best Overall Team: London
- Trauma Challenge Best Overall Team: London
- Heavy Rescue Best Overall Team: West Midlands & Hampshire & Isle of Wight
- Extrication Best Overall Team: Greater Manchester
The festival attracted thousands of enthusiastic spectators who witnessed the bravery and skill behind life-saving rescues. With fierce but friendly competition, the event showcased Britain’s fire crews at their absolute best.
Originally published by UKNIP.
