AMS Tower to host fire service training

Firefighters from Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service will carry out training in the empty AMS Tower as part of an agreement supporting our local emergency services.

The AMS Tower, which adjoins the Knight Building on Whiteknights campus, was offered to the Fire Service for training by the University’s Fire Safety team during recent meetings as part of the University’s local engagement.

Training will be pre-planned with the University’s Fire Safety team and the first confirmed days are on Friday 17 March (10am-1pm) and Thursday 30 March (2pm-5pm). Further training dates will occur over the coming months and colleagues will be informed of any likely associated disruption.

There will be up to four fire engines on site and all training will take place indoors. Fire officers will use the upper floors in the Tower to practise using breathing apparatus during high rise procedures. They will also use the basement area to practise scenarios once this becomes available.

A risk assessment has been carried out by the Fire Service and, because no water pumps will be used, noise will be minimal for the duration of the training. The fire engines will park in AMS rear service area and so will not impact parking for colleagues.

The University has previously supported NHS staff during the Covid-19 pandemic by providing equipment, clinical updates and food, as well as free parking on campus for Royal Berkshire Hospital staff.

Work with Thames Valley Police and a range of other community groups and charities also contributes to the University’s strategic principle to be an Engaged University.