An Essex firefighter has trained specialist Nepalese soldiers in how to use thermal imaging cameras.

Station Officer Steve Hart flew to the capital Kathmandu last week to give the training to selected members of the Nepalese Disaster Recovery Regiment.

The six-day visit, on behalf of Essex Fire Authority Trading Limited, included a variety of exercises and scenarios as well as search and rescue training.

Station Officer Hart, who is from Wickham Bishops and is the breathing apparatus and fire behaviour manager based at the Essex County Fire and Rescue Service (ECFRS) headquarters in Kelvedon, delivered the training in conjunction with specialist fire and rescue service equipment provider Vimpex.

He said: “Thermal imaging cameras are unique. They allow crews to consider situations more accurately while helping to make better use of the time needed to potentially save life and prevent damage to property.

“Thermal imaging cameras give eyesight in an environment where firefighters have none. Not only do they save lives but they keep our crews safe.

“I would like to thank Vimpex and Essex Fire Authority Trading for this opportunity to improve the skills and capabilities of the Nepalese Disaster Recovery Regiment.”

ECFRS has 80 thermal imaging cameras, with an additional 75 being purchased throughout this year. The aim is to have two cameras on every station which can be continuously charged on fire engines.