The national security minister gained insight into the inner workings of the fire service as part of a series of visits to departments within his ministry.

Michael Weeks was given a tour of Hamilton Fire Station by acting chief fire officer Dana Lovell and other officials at the Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service. During the tour, Mr Weeks met some new recruits as they received breathing apparatus training.

He said: “These new recruits will be shortly going overseas for specialist training on their journey to becoming fully qualified airport rescue firefighters.

“I was very impressed with how far they have come in such a short time and that is a reflection of the calibre and commitment of these new recruits as well as the training staff at the BFRS.”

Mr Weeks was also shown how the call centre operates with officers not only receiving calls about fires but also medical emergencies.

He added: “Often times during an emergency, the 911 dispatch team are the unsung heroes due to their requirements to think quickly, remain calm under intense pressure and process complex information.

“I praise the team for their efforts, as I do the entire BFRS for their professionalism and dedication.”