Why fire cuts will endanger lives
On 7th September, councilors will be asked to pass seven recommendations which will form the basis of the next Norfolk Fire & Rescue Service Safety Plan. Euphemistically known as an improvement plan, these proposals include the removal of a fire engine from Norwich when crews move in to the new Carrow fire station. As a result of similar ‘improvements’ across the country, the rate of deaths and injuries per fire, the rate of injuries to firefighters and the cost of fire to the economy has increased.
Managers claim that reduced call volumes mean that the risk from fire is reduced. However, the volume of calls to incidents which pose a risk to life and property has not decreased significantly and the community risk profile of Norwich has, if anything, changed for the worse. Consequently, the risk to the public remains high and at least the current level of emergency cover is required to keep the public safe.
Managers also claim that the predicted low workload of the 2nd appliance at Carrow justifies its removal. However, this ignores the activities which fire crews take part in when not responding to emergencies, such as fitting smoke alarms in peoples’ homes and offering safety advice.
This reduction in fire cover will result in a delay in the provision of sufficient resources to safely resolve incidents across Norwich. This means that the lives of the public and of firefighters will be put at greater risk. Homes, businesses and heritage buildings will more likely be significantly damaged in the event of fire.
Norfolk Fire & Rescue Service already provides very good value for money. This proposed saving will come at the cost of a reduction in safety for the residents of Norwich.
Members of the Fire Brigades Union are campaigning against the changes to emergency provision in Norfolk. If you share our concern, let the Fire Service know by contacting the Chief Fire Officer or your local County Councilor. There will be a lobby of County Hall from 08:30 on 7th September when the proposals are presented to the council.
Article submitted by Stefan Rider, who represents the Norwich branch of the Fire Brigades Union
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