The Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service’s newest recruits have been trained in child sex abuse prevention.

Now the BFRS wants to extend the training run by charity Saving Children and Revealing Secrets to all its staff.

Troy Furbert, divisional officer of the BFRS training division, said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to work with Scars to deliver this important information. “We are looking forward to extending this training to the entire BFRS family in the coming months.”

The BFRS’s firefighter recruit class completed the training at Hamilton police station last week.

Mr Furbert said: “The programme provided everyone with a raised awareness and provided them with tools to help prevent, recognise and respond appropriately to the signs of child sexual abuse.

“Presenters Glenda Edwards and Debbi Ray-Rivers delivered an informed presentation on child sexual abuse and the profound impact on the lives of those directly and indirectly affected.”

Ms Ray-Rivers, Scars founder and executive director, said: “As first responders to fires, public safety and medical emergencies, the Bermuda Fire Service are committed to public safety.

“They indeed save lives and now they have been provided with the knowledge and skills to save children from sexual abuse.

“We at Scars are truly grateful to Mr Troy Furbert, Mr Gavin Carter and the 16 officers who were certified.”