Beavers show they are prepared with new badge

The 1st Whiteley Beavers completed the inaugural community safety award, which was set up by the Duke of Cornwall.

To earn the award, they had to complete a series of tasks, including an emergency household action plan, learn how to call the emergency services and how to evaluate an emergency.

This was done with help from the crew at Botley Fire Station.

The idea behind the award is that, in light of the flooding in Cornwall, uniformed organisations will be able to help 999 services after a large-scale incident such as a flood or long-term power cut.

Will James, aged six, said: ‘It’s really exciting to be part of the first Beavers group to get the award.

‘I’ve learned lots of things from the fire crew, like get out, stay out and call 999. And we got to visit the fire station, see the fire engine and learn all about staying safe.’

Beavers’ leader Lindsey Vickery, said: ‘We are delighted to be the first group to complete the award.

‘Earning the badge is a great way of raising awareness of a lot of different scenarios that the fire service deal with.

‘The Beavers have learned that it’s not just fires that the fire service is called out to, and they have gained new skills to prepare them for different types of emergencies and who to look out for, like the vulnerable people in their community.’

Justin Harden, community safety group manager for the Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: ‘It is a great honour for the service to support this award and a brilliant opportunity to engage the younger generation, who will hopefully share what they have learned with their family and friends.

‘I was amazed at the Beavers’ commitment to completing the badge and the retention of safety tips.

‘It was a well-deserved award all round.’

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