The Engineered Solutions division of Dräger, an international specialist in the fields of medical and safety technology, has provided Capita’s Fire Service College (FSC) with a highly intuitive training tool to enhance the theoretical and tactical training required to tackle wildfires.
In the first four months of 2025, a staggering 286 wildfires were recorded, with the BBC reporting that the area of the UK burnt by wildfire so far this year is already higher than the total for any year in more than a decade.
The National Fire Chief Council is warning there is currently a heightened risk of wildfires that is resulting in increased investment in wildfire training and a greater need to develop firefighters’ skill.
The intelligent design of Dräger Wildland-Fire Sandbox (WFS 1000) uses a software-based display allowing for multiple scenarios of fire propagation to be realistically demonstrated, based on internationally recognised wildfire calculation models (Campbell Predictions System and Rothermel Fire Spread Model).
Comprising multiple components including a depth camera, projector and sandbox, the integrated software is used to accurately predict fire propagation against numerous simulation parameters, taking into consideration weather conditions, terrain and tactics employed to extinguish the fire.
The WFS 1000 training tool is now part of Capita FSC’s new three tier wildfire curriculum, which develops the necessary knowledge, skills and behaviours for all levels of fire service personnel, from new recruits to strategic incident commanders.
The WFS 1000’s use of real maps and satellite images means that the College can deliver realistic training in a safe space enabling the trainees to transfer the skills they’ve developed into the real world.
Pippa Steele Head of Teaching, Learning and Digital at Capita FSC says the WFS 1000 will provide firefighters with the skills they require: “Training is all about making sure firefighters are prepared and equipped with vital experience as soon as we see new threats emerging. That is why Capita is committed to harnessing cutting-edge technology to strengthen safety and resilience.
“An important quality of the training tool is that it is intuitive and easy for trainers and learners to use to allow full immersion in the learning experience. Dräger’s technology provides these requirements and more. As a result, we have been able to develop a course that brings theory to life and delivers interactive training to firefighters that is transferable to real-world experiences.”
Thomas Pearson, Marketing Manager (Industry) Breathing Systems & Engineered Solutions at Dräger added: “Rising incidences of wildfires has accelerated the need for more firefighters to be trained, and our solution will enhance the authentic training of firefighters by bringing wildfire incidents to life without putting any firefighters at risk.
“At Dräger, we pride ourselves on designing technology for life, and are committed to protecting, supporting, and saving lives through our designs.”
