CREWS from Newton Abbot Fire Station have been put through their paces to hone their skills in rescuing people from confined spaces.

Journalists from the Mid-Devon Advertiser were really impressed then they joined the local crew on a crash drill a few weeks ago.

In their latest drill night they focused on completing a rescue from a confined space and the associated risks that go alongside such an incident.

They report on their Facebook page: ‘The only access the crews had to the scenario was via our 135 ladder, (13.5 meters in height) pitched to the second floor of our drill tower.

‘Crews then proceeded down raking ladders using a method known as 'lowering in series'. This required crews to proceed down into the risk area in harnesses and attached to lines. ‘Prior to crews entering the risk area, they monitored the atmosphere to check for harmful gasses.

‘For the purpose of the scenario, they were instructed that the atmosphere was oxygen deficient.

‘As a result, the rescue team were required to wear BA (Breathing Apparatus).

‘Once at the base of our tower, the crew then entered the confined space and crawled their way to the casualty.

‘Once they reached the end, it was unfortunately deemed that the casualty was deceased.

‘As a result, crews were instructed to withdraw from the risk area to finish the exercise. They conclude: ‘Although this kind of incident is rare, it is one we practice for to ensure that should the need ever arise, we are well prepared for it.’