South Wales Gears Up for UKRO Rescue Showdown
Cardiff Bay is set to become the rescue capital of the UK from 27-29 September as South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) prepares to host the United Kingdom Rescue Organisation Challenge 2018. The annual event pits emergency teams from across the globe against each other in jaw-dropping rescue skills competitions.
The UKRO Challenge is THE spotlight on lifesaving talent. From vehicle extrication and trauma care to urban search and rescue, rope work and water rescue – teams face real-life emergency simulations that test guts, grit, and skill.
Three Days of High-Stakes Rescue Action and Learning
- Mandatory workshops on day one ensure all teams sharpen their skills and knowledge.
- SWFRS debuts a brand new Safety Village, promoting vital safety tips and risk awareness.
- Competitors will battle it out across iconic locations including Roald Dahl Plass and the International White Water Centre.
SWFRS Chief Fire Officer, Huw Jakeway, said, “We are extremely proud to host the UKRO Challenge for 2018 and look forward to welcoming participants and supporters from around the world. Our rescue challenges and the new Safety Village will offer plenty of chances to learn and leave safer. We hope everyone enjoys a warm Welsh welcome.”
Steve Apter, Chair of the UKRO, added, “This event provides the highest standard of learning and is the perfect stage to showcase the exceptional skills of emergency services UK-wide. Cardiff Bay is the ideal home for this prestigious challenge.”
High-Octane Rescue Disciplines
- Water Rescue: Teams will tackle rapid river currents at the International White Water Centre before demonstrating open water skills in Cardiff Bay.
- USAR (Urban Search and Rescue): Participants face four tough scenarios involving breaching, lifting, shoring, and technical search alongside specialist rescue tactics.
Meanwhile, the National Fire Chiefs Council Autumn Conference will run alongside the event, with fire chiefs from across the UK supporting their teams and celebrating frontline heroism.
Decades of Rescue Excellence
The UKRO Challenge dates back to 1986, originally known as the Car Users Entrapment and Extrication Society (CUEES). It pioneered an annual national rescue competition that has since expanded to cover trauma care, rope rescue, water rescue, and USAR. Over the years, the organisation has added CPD-accredited workshops, launched an eLearning Portal, and established UKRO Patrons to boost training and development.
For more info on the UKRO Challenge and updates, visit the official UKRO website.
