Firefighter to Tackle Half Marathon – in Full Firefighting Kit

A half marathon is a test of physical fitness and endurance, as well as mental resilience.  Not only is Firefighter Mel Herbert, of Ponti-ets Fire Station, preparing to run the Great Welsh Half Marathon, she’s preparing to complete it in full firefighting kit.

Mel is currently training to complete the 13-mile-long race on Sunday, March 16^th, with the route beginning and finishing in Pembrey Country Park, and including Burry Port.  She will be wearing a firefighting tunic, trousers and a breathing apparatus (BA) set – weighing around 13lbs alone – for the entire race.  As part of her training, Mel has been running in firefighting kit and a weighted vest to emulate the BA set and taking part in the Llanelli 10K Race.

Running in full firefighting kit presents a formidable challenge as it is heavy, restrictive and made of non-breathable materials.  However, Mel is determined to complete the race to raise awareness and funds for the Fire Fighters Charity, which offers lifelong support to the mental, physical and social well-being of serving and retired Firefighters, their families, and other Fire and Rescue Service personnel.

Speaking on her challenge, Mel said:

“I’ve previously completed two half marathons and I wanted to challenge myself further, which is why I’ve decided to run the Great Welsh Half Marathon in full firefighting kit.

Being part of the Fire and Rescue Service, I’ve been able to see the difference the Fire Fighters Charity makes through the support they offer, and this is why they’re my chosen charity.

Having recently met the Antarctic Fire Angels at a Women in the Fire Service event, I’ve also been inspired by the challenges and expeditions they’ve taken part in.”

Mel will be supported by her fellow crew members from Pont-iets Fire Station, who will be attending with the fire engine and sharing home safety information while cheering her on.

You can support Mel and the Fire Fighters Charity by donating to her JustGiving page.

Making a Difference as an On-Call Firefighter

Wanting to make a difference in her community following a family tragedy, Mel was inspired to attend a Firefighter Experience Day, held regularly by the Fire and Rescue Service.

Mel is now an On-Call Firefighter at Pont-iets Fire Station, which means she gets notified of an emergency call via a personal pager while on duty.

On being an On-Call Firefighter, Mel said:

“While I’m still in my first year as an On-Call Firefighter, I’m really enjoying my role.

I enjoy the rush of responding to an incident and being able to see that I’m making a difference in my community and of people during their time of need.  I’ve also enjoyed the training that comes as part of the role, having recently completed my cardiac arrest response training, which will enhance the Fire Station’s response capabilities.

There’s still an outdated perception that women can’t be Firefighters, but I’m proof that women can bring strength and diverse perspectives to a profession that benefits from inclusivity and teamwork.

For anyone considering becoming an On-Call Firefighter, I would urge them to just go for it – it’s been the best thing I’ve done.”

75% of Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service’s Fire Stations are crewed entirely by On-Call Firefighters.

Like the Wholetime Duty System role, On-Call Firefighters respond to fires and special service incidents such as road traffic collisions, chemical emergencies, animal rescues, flooding and more.  They are also required to inform and educate their local communities and carry out Home Fire Safety Checks in people’s homes.

For more information on how to become an On-Call Firefighter, visit the Service’s website.