Camel and alpaca rescue training for firefighters

Winchester firefighters learnt how to safety handle a range of exotic animals

A team of firefighters has undergone training in rescuing exotic animals including camels and alpacas.

The animal rescue specialists from Winchester Fire Station practiced their skills with the privately-owned collection at Little Durnford Manor in Wiltshire.

The sessions allowed the firefighters to get to grips with working with camels, alpacas, miniature horses and large donkeys in an emergency situation.

Watch manager Mark Compton said it increased their "knowledge and understanding" of working with animals they do not normally come across.

The sessions allowed the team to get to grips with working with camels, alpacas, miniature horses and large donkeys in an emergency situation

The opportunity to train at the estate came about when Mr Compton saw the camels while mountain biking nearby and met their owner, Lady Chichester.

The training sessions allowed the crews to get comfortable when working with animals and learn how to put on head restraints and lead them safely in an emergency situation.

Mr Compton said: “The staff gave us important training on how to capture and hold the animals without causing them distress and injury.

“It was a fantastic opportunity for Winchester animal rescue teams to expand their knowledge and understanding of animals which can be translated into good operational practice.”

Lady Chichester said the animals "absolutely loved" the sessions.

She said they allowed the firefighters to learn the "very wide range of possibilities there are to understand and appreciate animals, the depths of their feelings, their individualism and intelligence".

HIWFRS’s animal rescue unit recently celebrated 20 years of providing specialist advice and support for the many animal related incidents dealt with by the fire service.