Essex Fire Officers return home from Morocco

Two fire officers from Essex County Fire and Rescue Service (ECFRS) who flew out to Morocco following the devastating earthquake are home after eight days of non-stop work to help find survivors.

Watch Manager Antony Clement and Crew Manager Tom Jewell who are part of the UK International Search and Rescue team (UKISAR) were deployed to Morocco to help with the search and rescue mission, following the 6.8 magnitude earthquake.

They were part of a 60-strong team of UK search and rescue specialists, made up of firefighters and staff from 14 fire and rescue services, including four search dogs and rescue equipment.

Antony and Tom reflected on their time in Morocco, they said:

“We’re really proud of the part we have been able to play during our time in Morocco. But our hearts go out to the people who have been affected by this truly devastating disaster.

“Being here really highlighted the importance of having committed, highly specialist firefighters and equipment, who can respond to a disaster of this size so rapidly.”

“We’d like to say thank you for everyone’s support for us here and at home. It has truly meant a lot.”  

Rick Hylton, Chief Fire Officer / Chief Executive at Essex County Fire and Rescue Service welcomed the pair back and said: “We’re pleased to have Antony and Tom back safe and sound. I’d like to thank them for everything that they did for the people of Morocco following the devastating earthquake.

“They did us and all other fire and rescue services proud. They train alongside UKISAR in their own time for incidents like this and their commitment is gratefully received wherever they are deployed.

“We’re so proud to have people like them in our Service, committing to help at the drop of a hat, leaving their loved ones at short notice, and heading into the unknown.”