THE idea of clambering into a metal box with fires raging and smoke billowing is something most people will baulk at.

But it is something every sailor should be prepared to do – and in all likelihood will have to do at least once in their careers.

To create as a realistic – and also environmentally-friendly – environment as possible, a £1m fire and rescue simulator has opened at RNAS Culdrose.

The fire trainer recreates the intense fire, heat, smoke and chaos of a blaze inside a ship –but in a safe and controlled environment.

The Culdrose fire simulator replicates four compartments on one deck, with a hallway and stairwell leading to six more compartments on an upper deck.

Using propane gas to generate flames and heat and vegetable oil smoke generators, sailors get a feel for a real fire situation, but are protected by various safety systems such as emergency lighting, smoke extraction systems, emergency power isolations and extra external escape doors.

The new simulator forms one strand of training at the School of Flight Deck Operations where aircraft handlers are taught not merely the art of moving aircraft and helicopters safely around a flight deck, but preparing for worst case scenario.

Debut Services (South West) Ltd managed the building project and the simulator was designed and installed by the specialist civilian firm Kidde Fire Trainers. 

The new facility meets the latest regulations covering air pollution and water contamination.