Sparking enthusiasm – Surrey Fire & Rescue Service Open Day.

22 August 2026

Whilst the current hot dry summer is enjoyed by many, it also comes with risks. A small spark can set the tinder dry fields, heathlands and woodlands alight. The Surrey Fire & Rescue Service crews have been busy over the past few weeks, but yesterday’s Open Day showed that they are fully equipped and  prepared for anything.

It was very impressive to see all the equipment, the training, and the sheer readiness as well as passion of the crews. It makes one realise how much skill and preparation sits behind every emergency call, and in a summer like this, this work matters more than ever.

Fire fighters demonstrated rescue techniques, showed the various different pieces of firefighting equipment and explained how they worked, and answered a steady stream of questions from curious visitors.  For me the most exciting thing was being able to sit in a real fire engine – a childhood dream come true!

Days like this do more than entertain. They build trust, spark interest in future recruits, and remind everyone just how much we rely on the people who are there when things go wrong – often at a cost to their own wellbeing. If you have a moment, please watch the short powerful film made by the Fire Fighters Charity in the below link:

https://www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/.