GALLERY: Emergency crews put their life-saving skills to the test in simulated road pile up

Emergency crews from the Swindon area put their skills to the test in an exercise based around a simulated multiple car pile up.

Crews from Swindon, Stratton, Westlea and Royal Wootton Bassett were joined by the heavy rescue unit based at Trowbridge fire station and the Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) from South Western Ambulance Service for the training event hosted by Honda UK's Swindon headquarters.

The company often donates pre-production models to the Fire and Rescue Service, as new materials and design features can impact on how firefighters go about cutting into vehicles to rescue those inside.

Crew Manager Mike Wainwright was one of the exercise organisers. He said: “A road traffic collision involving several vehicles takes up a lot of space, and we need even more room for all the attending emergency services, so it can be very difficult to run training that realistically replicates what we could face. We are hugely grateful to Honda, as their support is allowing us to set up a scenario that is lifelike and, therefore, really challenging to those taking part.”

He added: “Every road traffic collision is different, and we are constantly testing our skills. New vehicle technology can present a challenge, whether it’s additional airbags or boron steel construction, which is difficult to cut through, so training like this is invaluable to both us and our emergency services partners.”

As well as those taking part in the exercise, there will be a number of observers on site to take notes and ensure that all necessary learning is drawn from the event.

Jason Smith, Director of Honda of the UK Manufacturing Ltd, said: “Honda is pleased to assist the emergency services with this activity. Our working partnership with Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service enables them to practice their skills on the latest vehicles, ensuring they are in the best position to support our community.”

See a video of the action here