RESIDENTS at Chatsworth Lodge in Chesterfield were given a front-row view of local firefighters in action after the care home supported a live winter emergency training exercise.
Firefighters from Chesterfield, Bolsover and Staveley Fire Station took part in the carefully managed exercise, with around 15 crew members using the care home and surrounding area to practise realistic search, rescue and emergency response techniques in challenging conditions.
The scenario was designed to mirror real-life incidents, enabling crews to familiarise themselves with local access points, terrain and landmarks. Firefighters accessed the River Hipper from the rear of Chatsworth Lodge, carrying out casualty searches both upstream and downstream, as well as across nearby land towards Walton Dam. A temporary casualty treatment and coordination area was also established in the home’s car park.
Despite cold and snowy weather, residents and colleagues at Chatsworth Lodge were keen to support the crews throughout the evening. Following the exercise, firefighters were invited inside to enjoy hot chocolate and refreshments as a gesture of thanks for their work and dedication.
Home manager Zenka Shires said the exercise reflected Chatsworth Lodge’s commitment to being part of the wider Chesterfield community.
He added: “Our home is not separate from the community around it – we’re part of it. Whether it’s supporting training exercises or offering a warm drink on a cold night, it’s about looking after the people who look after our community.”
For residents, the exercise provided an opportunity to see emergency services in action close to home. Many watched with interest, describing the experience as reassuring and informative.
The home regularly hosts emergency service breakfast mornings for police, ambulance and fire personnel, with these events set to continue throughout 2026.