Firefighters gave students from Wiltshire College an insight into what they do during an activity day at Trowbridge Fire Station on Monday.

Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service hosted a group of 22 students from Wiltshire College’s Public Services course at the station, where they watched videos about fire safety and took part in activities.

The day was organised by the Salamander Project and Safe Drive.

Student Blair Keegan, 19, said: “It was great to see how to use the equipment and the videos showed us how devastating a fire can be. It really makes you appreciate the fire service.

“The course gives us an insight into different public services and while I haven’t decided what I want to do, I would like to do anything that means I’m helping other people.”

The students were shown exercises such as hose running and how to use hydraulic cutting equipment, while they also had an opportunity to talk with the duty watch and find out more about what being a firefighter means.

Jamie Roach, public service’s lecturer, said: “It’s a great opportunity for the students to speak to people in the job and to get their hands on equipment.”

Dawn Whiting, Salamander co-ordinator, said: “This was their chance to see what the fire and rescue service does, as well as giving them more information about fire safety in the home and road safety.

“It’s also a good way to keep us in touch with the community and hopefully it is something we will be able to do again next year.”