Thursday 29 October 2026
 As part of International Control Room Week, Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service is shining a spotlight on the dedicated Control Firefighters who answer emergency calls, coordinate incident responses and provide vital support to firefighters and the public around the clock.
While fire engines and emergency crews are often the most visible part of the Service, every emergency response begins in Fire Control, where trained operators gather critical information, mobilise resources and help manage incidents as they unfold.
This year, three members of Bedfordshire's Fire Control team have shared their personal experiences of the role, highlighting the skill, resilience and teamwork required behind the scenes.
For Control Firefighter Tom, the reality of the role became clear just weeks after joining the Service when he helped manage a major incident during only his second week on watch.
"What I remember most isn't the pressure, but the support. Although I was dealing with the calls, I was never dealing with them alone."
Control Firefighter Michael wants to challenge perceptions around the role.
"People often think we're simply answering emergency calls and sending fire engines. In reality, we're constantly processing information, communicating with crews, supporting officers, working with partner agencies and coordinating complex incidents."
Meanwhile Vanessa, who works in Fire Control while continuing to serve as an on-call firefighter, offers a unique perspective having experienced emergency incidents from both sides of the response.
"Whether I'm responding as an on-call firefighter or working in Fire Control, it's about helping people and finding the best way to support them when they need it most."
Throughout the year, Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service's Fire Control team supports incidents ranging from house fires and road traffic collisions to severe weather events and national-scale emergencies. They also work closely with neighbouring fire and rescue services and partner agencies to ensure help reaches those who need it as quickly as possible.
Station Commander Faye Roast, Service Control Manager, said:
"Our Fire Control team are often the unseen link between the public and our emergency response. They provide reassurance to callers during some of the most challenging moments of their lives while coordinating the information and resources needed to support our crews. International Control Room Week provides an opportunity to recognise the professionalism, dedication and expertise they bring to the role every day."
Read the full stories on our website:
Tom: Learning fast in my first 18 months
Michael: What People Get Wrong About Fire Control
Vanessa: From Fire Engine to Control Room
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