Juha rescues and promotes occupational safety

Juha Suomi, Rescue NCO, and head of the military fire department, has a lot on his plate. Suomi is a non-commissioned officer who came to work for the Defence Forces after being employed by private transport companies. He started in transportation, sometimes took part in international assignments and then became Rescue NCO for the 2nd Logistics Regiment at the Naval Depot in Skinnarvik.

Together with his team in the military fire department, Suomi is responsible for rescue operations, handling of fuels and explosives, and user training. The military fire department also supports and carries out maintenance work in Navy exercises. At times, Suomi takes part in transport assignments and acts as a harbourmaster, leading oil spill response when large vessels arrive to the pier to refuel.

Military fire department always at the ready

Skinnarvik is located in Kimitoön (Kemiönsaari) by the sea, quite far from the urban centres. For this reason, the military fire department is prepared not only for basic tasks but also for other assignments, such as assistance of civilians in distress at sea, responding to oil spills and wildfires. Cooperation is carried out with volunteer fire brigades.

– As it can be playfully said, we are located in the middle of nowhere, and the response times of other fire brigades to get here and to the sea is long. We can act immediately.

Suomi has noticed that this work has given him an ability to read people and taught him leadership skills. Suomi also notes that there is still much for him to learn. But best of all, the employer gives him the opportunity to learn almost anything.

– I always highlight the diversity of our work, our excellent and motivating work community and the professional opportunities afforded to us. A lot depends on your attitude and goals, but the possibility to maintain and develop your professional skills here is a massive advantage.

Attentive work and situational awareness

Suomi feels his work is particularly meaningful. All team members must be alert and careful and carry out their own tasks and obligations. However, the military fire department is prepared for everything, and the work community plays well together.

– We are an important link in readiness. No matter what happens, we’re at the forefront, our equipment is in order and we’re ready to go. And even though we work with serious and dangerous issues, I consider humour within the work community a good counterbalance.

Suomi recommends working for the Finnish Defence Forces to people who don’t take everything too seriously.

– You need to be able to read a variety of situations, but the people who work here are ordinary people.