THERE’S more to putting out fires than just pouring water over a blaze and hoping for the best.

Science and technological advances have changed the landscape of firefighting forever, increasing the number of lives saved and reducing the damage to property.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service has recently acquired a range of support to help the frontline firefighter.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service has begun using its ‘multi compartment fire training unit’, which allows trainers to carry out realistic, safe, and repeatable fire scenarios so trainee firefighters can gain valuable experience.

The centre allows firefighters to cope with deadly temperatures and toxic air conditions while manoeuvring in their full oxygen kit.

Mark Warwick, training manager at the fire service’s base in Euxton, said: “Having this sort of technology to hand proves invaluable to the firefighters who use it.

“We’re able to plan different scenarios and firefighters get to experience what it’s like to be in those difficult situations before going out into the real world.”

The Rosenbauer AT stinger, which is based at Blackburn Fire Station, is a one-of-a-kind and is able to pierce through walls and roofs and pump 1,000 litres of water a minute into a building without sending a single person inside.

Graham Eaton, a Blackburn-based firefighter, said: “This is a new concept of fire engine.

“We are able to cool down buildings and reduce temperatures from hundreds of degrees to much more manageable and safer temperatures within seconds.

“It’s a fantastic engine that has enhanced our job massively.”

The Aeryon Skyranger drone is one of the most advanced in the world and is able to provide live HD, infra-red and heat sensor footage back to firefighters to provide an ‘eye in the sky’ view of fires.

Justin Johnston, deputy chief fire officer for Lancashire, said: “We have some of the best equipment in the country to deal with fires.

“Lancashire is leading the way in training and using technology to keep the county safer.

“It’s our ultimate goal to reduce the risk of fires, and by collaborating with technology companies to create these innovative pieces of equipment we can make excellent progress.”