Release date: 14 November 2022
Firefighters have completed a training exercise at Butlin’s to test their procedures in the event of a major incident.
The mock incident, which took place at the Bognor Regis resort, saw crews respond to a simulated fire in a laundry room which affected a gas pipe. This resulted in around 500 members of staff being evacuated from the resort whilst the exercise was completed.
The exercise took place this afternoon and no guests were on-resort at the time.
Alastair Letchford, Station Manager at Bognor Fire Station, said: “Looking after the communities we serve is a common interest for both the emergency services and Butlin’s, and that was the main reason for us all coming together and practicing our efficiency should a major incident occur.
“Butlin’s is a huge attraction that has thousands of visitors each year, and we regularly visit their site to maintain our familiarisation with the buildings on the resort.
“During the exercise there were several fire appliances and ambulance vehicles surrounding the resort, so I would like to thank residents for their patience and understanding.”
Nikki Ratcliffe, Resort Director at Butlin’s Bognor Regis added: “We were happy to welcome the emergency services to resort to carry out their important training exercise. We have a fantastic relationship with the local services and mock incidents like this are hugely important in ensuring everyone is comfortable with the procedures in place should an incident occur.”
