Phillip Reid returns to South Africa as a qualified world assessor
The challenge replicated real-life scenarios, requiring teams to respond within tight time frames to world standards while being constantly assessed by experienced WRO assessors.
The Ekurhuleni Disaster and Emergency Management Services (DEMS) crew commander, Phillip Jacobus “PJ” Reid, based at Leon Ferreira Fire Station, recently returned from the 20th World Rescue Challenge as a qualified world technical and command assessor.
Reid was a shadow assessor at the challenge, hosted by the World Rescue Organisation (WRO), which took place in La Rochelle, France, in September.
READ STORY: Crew commander selected to be an assessor at World Rescue Challenge
This unique event saw international teams and assessors come together to promote and share skills and experience in the vehicle rescue and casualty care operations.
Reid said he had a magnificent experience in France and is honoured to become a world assessor.
“This year’s World Rescue Challenge was a huge success. Everything was well organised and I had an incredible experience in the beautiful city of La Rochelle,” said Reid, who now also stands a chance to be an assessor at next year’s World Rescue Challenge in Miami.
“We worked hard during this challenge, but it was worth it. This competition provides an opportunity for international teams to share knowledge and learn new techniques and skills.
“This year, they cut up brand-new Renault Megane motors, which consist of the best technology in the world. It’s important to learn new skills to be adaptable.”
He said that travelling alone was the most challenging part of the competition.
“Sometimes it felt like the hours were just dragging by as I was completely alone and had nobody to talk to while travelling. It was difficult for me and I won’t travel alone again. I’m also planning on taking my wife, Debbie, to France next year because I want her to see what I experienced,” added Reid.
“As amazing as the experience was, I’m still happy to be back in South Africa. There’s no place like home.”
Reid said he would like to see the female team from Ekurhuleni not only compete in national competitions, but international competitions as well as they have potential.
“I would also like to thank the City of Ekurhuleni for offering me special leave to attend the World Rescue Challenge, the South African Medical Rescue Organisation (SAMRO) and my wife for her love and support.”
