Wairarapa Rural Fire Force appreciates the efforts of Juken New Zealand (JNL) in getting their contractors fire training accreditation in the lead-up to summer.
Principal rural fire officer Phill Wishnowsky says forecasters are predicting a hot, dry summer, so the commitment to training and preparedness by JNL is "very much appreciated".
At a certificate ceremony last Friday, Mr Wishnowsky and JNL's Sean McBridge handed out National Crew Leader certificates, meaning a contractor would be able to manage a crew of firefighters; and National Firefighter certificates, covering firefighting skills.
Firms whose workers had skilled up were Wichman Silviculture, Pomare Logging and Harvard Logging.
Mr Wishnowsky encouraged other forestry owners to check their levels of preparedness for personnel and equipment.
