Firefighter suffers life-changing injuries during rope rescue training exercise

‘This job, done on behalf of us all, is inherently dangerous,’ commissioner says

Harpur Hill, Derbyshire (Google)

A firefighter has suffered life-changing injuries during a rope rescue training exercise.

The individual – a member of Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service – was carrying out practice drills at rural Harpur Hill in the Derbyshire Peak District when the accident occurred on Sunday.

Although the nature of the incident has not been disclosed, the service confirmed a second crew member had also suffered minor injuries.

Both are based at Stafford Fire Station.

The incident will now be investigated by Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service, while the Health and Safety Executive has also been informed.

Chief fire officer Becci Bryant said she was “shocked and saddened by this incident and our thoughts remain with our injured colleagues and their families and friends at this difficult time, and we would ask that their privacy is respected”.

She added: “We are working to support them and other colleagues who have been affected by this.”

Matthew Ellis, Staffordshire commissioner for police, fire and rescue and crime, said: “The job that firefighters do on behalf of us all is inherently dangerous, and this incident brings that home to us all.

“An independent investigation is under way and will report as soon as possible. In the meantime, support for the firefighters and their families is the main priority.”