NFCC demands action over lithium-ion batteries as use outpaces safety standards

by Featured NewsSafety

Lithium-ion batteries driving new UK fire risks

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has warned that rising use of lithium-ion batteries in UK homes is outpacing current product safety standards and called for urgent government action to address the resulting fire risks.

In a statement issued on Wednesday 19 November 2025, NFCC said lithium-ion battery fires can be explosive, spread quickly and produce toxic gases with a high risk of reignition.

The organisation warned that these incidents place the public, firefighters, property and the wider environment at increased risk.

NFCC has published new recommendations aimed at strengthening safety across lithium-ion-battery-powered consumer products and related energy technologies.

The council wants ministers to use existing and new regulatory powers to tighten product safety rules, including for items sold online.

It is also calling for better systems to dispose of batteries safely and new investment in research to help fire and rescue services manage these incidents.

NFCC said a coordinated national public information campaign is needed so that people understand how misuse, unsafe charging and product modification can raise the likelihood of lithium-ion battery fires.

Data on growing e-bike and e-scooter fire risks

NFCC reported that lithium-ion batteries are now embedded in a wide range of everyday products, including electric toothbrushes, tools, toys, mobile phones, tablets, laptops and vapes.

They also power personal light electric vehicles (PLEVs) such as e-bikes and e-scooters, as well as electric vehicles (EVs).

While NFCC described these technologies as important for a low-carbon future, it stressed that fires involving lithium-ion batteries are complex, produce toxic and potentially explosive vapours and carry a serious risk of reignition.

According to Prevention of Future Death reports cited by NFCC, at least six fatalities since 2023 have been linked to e-bike and e-scooter fires.

Between January 2021 and September 2023, a search of free-text entries in the Government’s Incident Recording System found 139 fire records that mentioned e-bikes and 124 that referred to e-scooters.

The Government has acknowledged that this dataset may be incomplete, and NFCC believes the true number of lithium-ion battery incidents is higher.

London Fire Brigade attended 179 fires involving e-bikes or e-scooters in 2023 and in 2024 the Office for Product Safety and Standards received reports of 211 such fires, close to half of which occurred indoors.

NFCC noted that reporting to the Office for Product Safety and Standards is voluntary, so these figures are likely to be an underestimate.

Product Safety and Metrology Act powers welcomed

NFCC has linked its lithium-ion battery concerns to the new Product Safety and Metrology Act 2025, which has recently received Royal Assent.

The act gives Government powers to introduce enforceable safety rules for products such as e-bikes and e-scooters, including items sold through online marketplaces.

NFCC said these powers could be used to reduce the fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries if they are implemented promptly and effectively.

The council welcomed the legislation but said urgent work is still needed to close existing safety gaps and ensure the powers are used to protect people and firefighters.

NFCC is also asking policymakers to recognise wider fire safety issues linked to emerging energy technologies beyond lithium-ion batteries, covering the full range of new storage and charging systems.

It argued that regulatory frameworks need to be flexible and able to adapt at pace as energy technology changes.

NFCC recommendations on Lithium-ion batteries and wider energy risks

In its Fire Risks in Energy Technologies Position Statements, NFCC set out a series of actions it wants Government and regulators to take.

It called for mandatory product safety rules and third-party testing for personal light electric vehicles.

NFCC also wants online marketplaces to be regulated so that all lithium-ion battery products sold in the UK must meet designated safety standards.

The council recommended a safe, accessible disposal regime for lithium-ion batteries, including damaged units, to reduce the chance of unsafe storage or handling.

It urged updates to Building Regulations guidance so that the fire risks from storing and charging energy technologies in homes and public places are fully addressed.

NFCC said fire and rescue service advice should be considered and responded to when services are consulted on fire safety risks, including comments under the Fire Safety Order during Building Regulations processes.

The council has asked for national public awareness campaigns on the safe use and disposal of lithium-ion-battery-powered products and for ongoing research funding to improve firefighting tactics and training for energy technology incidents.

It also called for better coordination across Government and regular consultation with fire safety specialists to aid long-term risk planning.

NFCC Chair Phil Garrigan said the growing prevalence of lithium-ion batteries in homes is reshaping the work of fire and rescue services and requires stronger protections from Government and industry.

Phil Garrigan, National Fire Chiefs Council Chair, said: “Lithium-ion batteries are now everywhere in our homes – powering the phones in our pockets, the laptops on our desks, e-scooters, and cordless appliances we use every day.

“But these technologies must not come at the cost of public and firefighter safety.

“The fire risks linked to these familiar products are evolving far faster than the safety standards designed to protect us.

“When things go wrong with lithium-ion batteries the consequences can be devastating, and tragically, lives have already been lost.

“Fire and rescue services are the first line of defence when these batteries fail, facing fires that are incredibly complex and dangerous to tackle.

“They need stronger protection, clear standards, and better tools from government and industry to continue safeguarding people and property as these batteries become ever more common in our homes.”

How NFCC’s lithium-ion battery position could shape practice

NFCC’s call for mandatory product safety rules and third-party testing for personal light electric vehicles could influence how fire and rescue chiefs and senior officers assess risk from e-bikes and e-scooters in their areas.

The focus on regulating online marketplaces and requiring designated safety standards for lithium-ion battery products is directly relevant for standards and certification bodies that advise on conformity and enforcement.

Requests for updated Building Regulations guidance on storing and charging energy technologies in homes and public places could affect building services engineers and facility managers who specify locations for charging points and storage areas.

The emphasis on safe, accessible disposal routes for damaged or end-of-life batteries could change procedures for risk assessors, fire-protection contractors and electrical contractors who frequently manage equipment removal and waste streams.

NFCC’s call for investment in research on firefighting tactics and training for energy technology incidents could shape future work by training officers and instructors as operational guidance for lithium-ion battery fires develops.

What UK Fire Cadets taught StayWise about youth engagement

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

Fire Cadets help shape expansion of NFCC’s StayWise

Fire Cadets from across the UK have contributed to the next phase of StayWise, the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) digital fire safety education platform.

According to StayWise, the collaboration took place during a residential event in Wiltshire organised by the NFCC Prevention Hub.

Cadets and instructors from Merseyside, Leicestershire, Cheshire, Hampshire and Isle of Wight, Devon and Somerset, South Wales and Northamptonshire attended.

The event formed part of NFCC’s ongoing effort to expand access to fire safety education and develop leadership opportunities for young people aged 13 to 18.

Cadets contribute to design of new StayWise section

Over the weekend, participants helped design the new UK Fire Cadet section of the StayWise website.

This section will include resources to develop operational skills and materials identified by cadets as important to their personal growth.

Content areas include fire safety, first aid, road safety and water safety education, alongside career development guidance and support for rank progression.

Instructors will also gain access to a dedicated library of safeguarding and leadership resources.

StayWise said workshops led by its team enabled cadets to map out the structure, content and user experience of the new online area.

Between sessions, cadets took part in outdoor and team-building activities at PGL Liddington.

Funding supports StayWise and Fire Cadets programme

The event was supported by a £500,000 government grant awarded to NFCC by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).

The funding is intended to expand the reach of the UK Fire Cadets programme and improve access to fire safety education through digital channels.

According to NFCC, the grant will help create new opportunities for young people across the country while strengthening the Fire Cadet Voice Forum’s role in shaping programme content.

Insights from the Wiltshire event will directly inform the design and content of the StayWise Fire Cadets area.

This ensures that materials reflect the priorities of cadets and instructors nationwide.

NFCC highlights cadets’ engagement and creativity

Sarah Mason, NFCC Head of Prevention, said: “It was fantastic to see our Fire Cadets so engaged in helping to shape their part of our StayWise website.

“It also allows us to make our work more meaningful and accessible.

“By listening to their views, we’re making sure our services and products reflect what our users truly need.

“The whole group was incredibly supportive, creative and professional – they are a real credit to their units and their fire and rescue services.”

Digital platform aims to strengthen youth fire safety education

The enhanced StayWise platform will provide interactive educational materials for use by Fire Cadets, instructors and schools.

StayWise said it encourages parents, teachers and those with caring responsibilities for young people to register and support the initiative.

The platform continues to promote the message: “StayWise to Save Lives.”

Developing leadership and prevention skills through StayWise

The development of the new Fire Cadet section within StayWise highlights NFCC’s focus on youth engagement and prevention.

By giving cadets a direct role in shaping digital educational tools, the NFCC supports early leadership development and increases awareness of fire, road and water safety among young people.

For instructors and fire and rescue services, the new materials will provide a consistent framework for training, safeguarding and community outreach.

The inclusion of career development resources could also help attract future recruits to the fire and rescue sector.

Fire and rescue service funding appeal follows surge in bonfire night emergencies

by ActiveAssociations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsSafety

Fire Brigades Union calls for emergency funding

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has urged the UK government to fund the fire and rescue service in the upcoming Budget, saying services are overstretched during one of the busiest times of the year.

According to the FBU, Bonfire Night again exposed a lack of resources across fire and rescue services, with crews responding to a sharp rise in incidents.

The latest government figures show that fire and rescue services in England attended 165,697 fires in the year to June 2025, representing a 28% increase compared to the previous year.

Overall incident attendance reached 628,764, marking a 25% increase over the past decade.

The FBU said the rise was largely driven by a 52% increase in outdoor primary fires, which are incidents causing harm to people or damage to property.

Fire-related fatalities also rose to 279 deaths in the same period, up 21% on the previous year, with 208 of those occurring in house fires.

Steve Wright, Fire Brigades Union General Secretary, said: “The fire and rescue service is on its knees after another round of deadly funding cuts, and firefighters are working to save lives under more pressure than ever.

“It also allows us to coordinate better with neighbouring services.

“Latest figures show a dramatic increase in serious fire incidents, with outdoor fires rising by over 50%.

“We have seen fire and rescue services pushed beyond limits responding to major wildfire incidents throughout the year, which are only predicted to worsen with the climate crisis.

“The loss of 1 in 5 firefighter posts since 2010 means fire cover and resilience have been decimated across the UK.

“The outcome is that it takes longer for fire engines to arrive at incidents, when every second counts.

“Political decisions to cut funding are tragically reflected in rising fatalities.

“The FBU is calling on the government to tax the ultra rich to fund our vital public services.

“To save lives, Rachel Reeves’ upcoming Budget must include a progressive wealth tax to rebuild the fire and rescue service.”

Attacks on firefighters condemned amid bonfire night incidents

Alongside calls for funding, both the FBU and the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) condemned reports of attacks on firefighters during bonfire night incidents.

NFCC Chair Phil Garrigan said: “It is appalling to see firefighters and other emergency service colleagues come under attack while doing their duty and protecting their communities.

“Their bravery should never be met with violence or abuse.

“Attacks on firefighters, like all emergency workers, are serious criminal offences that can carry custodial sentences.

“Those responsible for these disgraceful acts must be held accountable and brought to justice.”

In Scotland, the FBU said firefighters were pushed “far beyond safe limits” as the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service reported more than 700 calls on 5 November.

The London Fire Brigade recorded 821 calls on the same night, the highest since 2016.

The union said attacks included a Merseyside crew targeted with fireworks while tackling a tower block fire.

Steve Wright said: “Firefighters are humanitarian workers, dedicated to saving lives.

“The last thing they need while fighting fires on the busiest night of the year is to come under attack.

“Fire and rescue services are severely under-resourced and overstretched.

“In the last decade, we have lost 1 in 5 firefighters to cuts.

“This means that fewer firefighters are responding to more incidents, and are pushed far beyond safe limits during periods like bonfire night.

“Cuts to fire and rescue service’s community outreach, and the axing of youth centres and services, are contributing to this chaos.

“The government must reverse austerity and fund public services to keep firefighters, and the public, safe.”

Union rejects political remarks on firefighter pensions

The FBU also criticised comments from Reform UK about potential changes to public sector pensions.

Steve Wright said: “Reform UK are a party led by millionaires.

“Firefighters will be shocked that the multi-millionaire deputy leader of Reform UK wants to raid the pensions of firefighters and other public sector workers.

“Firefighters put their lives and their health on the line day-in and day-out to protect the public.

“Farage and Tice are threatening firefighters hard earned pensions.

“The FBU will fiercely resist any attempt to cut the pensions that firefighters have already paid into.

“Firefighters’ pensions have been systematically attacked by various governments over the years, and Reform UK while professing to be different are clearly demonstrating that they are no different at all from those who have previously attacked firefighters’ pensions.

“In fact they intend to go further than previous governments ever did by getting rid of defined benefit pensions for public sector workers.

“In the forthcoming Budget, Chancellor Rachel Reeves must urgently introduce a wealth tax to properly fund public services, pensions and increase pay for all workers.”

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The FBU’s call for increased funding highlights operational strain across UK fire and rescue services.

Rising incident numbers, particularly outdoor and residential fires, indicate heavier demand on response capacity and equipment readiness.

Fire and rescue leaders may review staffing, coverage and community engagement strategies in light of these trends.

The growing frequency of attacks on firefighters also underlines the need for stronger safety measures and coordination with law enforcement during public events.

For policymakers, the data provides evidence of service pressure and potential areas for future resource allocation in the upcoming Budget cycle.

What NFCC’s new remediation warning means for safety reform

by Breaking NewsConstructionPassiveSafety

Building remediation hindered by broken safety system

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has warned that building remediation is being delayed by deep-rooted problems in the UK’s building safety regime.

Launching its Remediation Position Statement, the NFCC said that relying on fire and rescue services to enforce a system that is not functioning properly is unsustainable.

The organisation urged ministers to create a centrally coordinated programme to address compliance, funding, accountability and workforce shortages.

It said that without such an approach, serious safety gaps would remain unresolved.

NFCC warns of barriers to government remediation targets

According to the NFCC, the Government’s Remediation Acceleration Plan is a step forward but faces major obstacles.

The plan aims to complete remediation of all high-rise buildings over 18 metres by 2029 and medium-rise buildings over 11 metres by 2031.

NFCC said that fluctuating government estimates of affected buildings, ranging from 5,900 to 12,000, have made it difficult to plan.

Of the 5,554 buildings within the public remediation programme, almost two-thirds remain incomplete.

The Government’s current working estimate is around 9,000 buildings.

Funding inconsistencies have also limited progress, NFCC said, with existing schemes often covering cladding but excluding other major defects.

The organisation added that fragmented funding arrangements, based on factors such as tenure, height and materials, have left many buildings stalled in uncertainty.

Financial and workforce pressures strain fire services

NFCC highlighted the financial pressure on fire and rescue services if they are required to inspect all buildings that may need remediation.

Depending on the final number of buildings within scope, the council estimated costs between £29.86 million and £61.77 million, with a working figure of £46.11 million based on 9,000 buildings.

NFCC said that this financial demand comes as many services face real-terms budget cuts, reducing their ability to oversee other high-risk sites such as hospitals and care homes.

Workforce shortages are also compounding delays, with fewer than 30 fully competent fire engineers currently working within English fire and rescue services.

The council said that training for such roles takes years and that recruitment has been made harder by experienced staff moving into the private sector.

Fire safety and building protection staff currently make up just 2.7% of the total fire and rescue service workforce in England.

The wider construction sector faces similar challenges, with the Chartered Institute of Building reporting a 250,000-person shortfall at a time of rising demand for new homes and infrastructure.

NFCC said its calls for a cross-departmental Construction Skills Strategy to address these shortages have not yet been acted upon.

NFCC chair calls for stronger regulation and accountability

Phil Garrigan, Chair of the National Fire Chiefs Council, said: “The Grenfell Tower fire was a national tragedy that exposed fundamental flaws in how we design, build, manage and regulate our homes.

“Fire and rescue services have played a vital role in making buildings safer, but enforcement alone cannot fix a broken system.

“Eight years on, progress is not where it should be. We must tackle the root causes – fragmented oversight, weak regulation, and chronic gaps in workforce, funding and data.

“Fire risk must be embedded into every stage of building safety, not left to emergency response.

“Underpinning all of this must be tougher regulation. The Grenfell Tower fire showed us, in the most devastating way, what happens when building regulations are too weak to protect people.

“We cannot allow that lesson to be ignored. The Government must implement the Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommendations in full and strengthen regulation to ensure no community is ever put at such risk again.”

NFCC outlines six priority actions for reform

The council’s position statement calls for six core actions.

It has urged the Government to establish a centrally led, risk-based remediation programme with defined roles, responsibilities and timelines.

It also wants a construction skills strategy to address shortages of fire engineers, surveyors, risk assessors and related trades.

Funding should be kept under review to ensure both internal and external defects are covered without costs being passed to leaseholders.

NFCC called for an urgent review of building regulations guidance to make sure safety standards are enforceable, risk-based and realistic.

It said that recently introduced enforcement powers must be clarified so that the Building Safety Regulator can coordinate action effectively.

Finally, NFCC said that the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 recommendations should be implemented through regulation of relevant professions, a large-scale product testing regime and publicly available compliance data.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

This development affects several key groups within the fire and building safety sectors.

Fire and rescue services are directly impacted, as NFCC’s estimate shows potential inspection costs exceeding £46 million depending on the final scope of remediation.

Building control professionals, fire engineers and risk assessors face growing demand for skilled expertise amid workforce shortages and increased regulatory expectations.

For construction and facilities managers, the NFCC’s call for a risk-based remediation programme highlights the operational challenges of coordinating funding, timelines and compliance under fragmented schemes.

The proposed reforms also have implications for policymakers, regulators and those responsible for enforcing the Building Safety Act, particularly where responsibilities overlap with the Building Safety Regulator.

NFCC reports wildfire surge placing strain on UK fire services

by Featured NewsWildland Fire

Rising wildfire numbers prompt NFCC warning

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has reported that firefighters in England and Wales have attended 856 wildfires so far this year.

According to the NFCC, the figure is on track to surpass the record numbers recorded in 2022.

It said that 2025 has already seen more wildfires by mid-August than any other year on record.

The NFCC stated that the increase is being driven by prolonged dry conditions and repeated summer heatwaves.

It added that the UK is currently experiencing another heatwave, with the Met Office forecasting temperatures reaching up to 34°C in parts of the country.

Year-on-year wildfire comparison

The NFCC reported that by 31 July 2025, 793 wildfires had been attended, compared with 596 by the same date in 2022.

It said this represented a 33% increase.

It added that the difference with last year was more pronounced, with 663% more wildfires recorded than in the same period in 2024.

National Resilience data showed that in 2024, fire and rescue services attended 104 wildfires by the end of July, compared with 663 over the same period in 2025.

The council stated that incidents this year are expected to exceed the 2022 record total.

Recent wildfire incidents across the UK

The NFCC said that Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service declared a major incident on 9 August due to two large heath fires.

It stated that more than 100 firefighters attended a fire at Holt Heath near Wimborne.

The service reported that at Newton Heath, near Swanage, crews worked on a blaze the size of 35 football pitches.

According to Dorset and Wiltshire FRS, neighbouring services from Hampshire and Isle of Wight, Devon and Somerset, and crews from as far as Lancashire, Merseyside and Greater Manchester provided support.

The NFCC said that on 10 August, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service attended a gorse blaze on Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh that lasted through the night.

Resource strain and operational impact

NFCC Chair Phil Garrigan said: “Firefighters are already being pushed to their limits, with the major incident declared in Dorset and Wiltshire this week and the blaze at Arthur’s Seat showing just how demanding and dangerous these events can be.

“Each wildfire can take days – sometimes weeks – to bring under control, tying up crews and specialist equipment and placing huge strain on other vital fire and rescue work.

“There’s a real human toll on our firefighters too who are undertaking the most arduous work in the toughest conditions.”

Garrigan added: “We are already seeing more wildfires at this point in the year than in 2022 — which itself was a record year — and that is deeply concerning.

“This is against a backdrop of sustained cuts in funding and reducing firefighter numbers – with 11,000 fewer firefighters in England now than there were 10 years ago, alongside a 20% increase in demand over the same period.

“Climate change is fuelling more frequent and intense extreme weather events, and wildfires are no longer a seasonal threat; they are a persistent and growing risk to life, property, and the environment.

“Meeting this challenge will require long-term, sustained investment so that fire and rescue services have the people, resources, and equipment they need to protect our communities, no matter how many fronts they are fighting on.”

Public safety advice on wildfires

The NFCC advised avoiding the use of disposable barbecues in open countryside, parks and moorland areas.

It said people should not discard cigarettes, matches or glass bottles.

The council stated that these can ignite dry vegetation.

It recommended following local authority guidance on fire risks and restrictions.

The NFCC urged anyone witnessing suspicious behaviour or deliberate fire-starting to contact the police or report anonymously to Crimestoppers.

It said that signs of fire should be reported immediately to the fire and rescue service by calling 999.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The NFCC’s data and statements highlight the operational challenges faced by UK fire services during periods of high wildfire activity.

It shows the effect of weather patterns on incident frequency and resource allocation.

For fire and safety professionals, this information underscores the need for planning, inter-agency support, and public awareness measures to mitigate wildfire risk.

It also reinforces the importance of considering long-term investment in equipment and personnel to meet increasing demands.

NFCC reports wildfire surge placing strain on UK fire services: Summary

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has reported 856 wildfires in England and Wales so far in 2025.

By the end of July 2025, 793 incidents had been recorded.

This is a 33% increase compared with the same period in 2022.

It is also 663% higher than the same period in 2024.

The NFCC said the increase is linked to heatwaves and dry conditions.

On 9 August, Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service declared a major incident due to two heath fires.

More than 100 firefighters attended Holt Heath near Wimborne.

At Newton Heath, near Swanage, crews tackled a blaze covering an area equivalent to 35 football pitches.

Support came from neighbouring services and from as far as Lancashire, Merseyside and Greater Manchester.

On 10 August, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service responded to a gorse blaze on Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh.

The NFCC urged public adherence to safety advice to reduce wildfire risk.

NFCC responds to UK fire reform plans and summer safety threats

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsSafety

Government outlines fire reform plan in England

The NFCC has reported that the UK Government set out four priorities for fire and rescue reform during the NFCC Spring Conference in England.

Fire Minister Chris Philp outlined the updated dirction for the sector, which includes a revised National Framework, establishing a new College of Fire and Rescue, a focus on productivity, and stronger local governance through devolution.

The Minister confirmed that the Ministerial Advisory Group would support the reform process and highlighted the UK’s reputation in the global fire community, endorsing plans for the 2026 World Fire Congress in London.

Phil Garrigan, Chair of the NFCC, said: “We welcome the Minister’s commitment to work in collaboration with us to drive improvements in our sector.

“We also welcome his appreciation of the growing challenges the sector faces and his recognition of the need to strengthen the infrastructure that supports fire and rescue services to deliver better outcomes more consistently.”

Philp also stated that housing safety remains a Government priority, with new regulations on Residential Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) now laid before Parliament and ongoing engagement with disability groups and Grenfell families continuing.

The Minister said that details on spending commitments are still being finalised. Garrigan said the NFCC is focused on ensuring fire and rescue services are “properly valued and do not become the forgotten emergency service.”

NFCC issues UK-wide wildfire alert amid hot weather

As reported by the NFCC, fire and rescue services are warning the public to take steps to prevent wildfires during the current heatwave in the UK.

The UK Health Security Agency has placed many regions under an Amber alert due to sustained high temperatures. This has prompted concerns over increased wildfire risk.

Phil Garrigan, NFCC Chair, said: “Our experience tells us that wildfires can start in an instant and escalate rapidly. That’s why we’re asking everyone to stay alert and act responsibly.”

The NFCC has published guidance advising people to avoid using disposable barbecues in open spaces, safely dispose of cigarettes and glass, and follow local restrictions.

Fire services across the UK have already responded to hundreds of wildfire incidents in 2024. The NFCC said that fire prevention is a shared responsibility and called for greater public caution during dry conditions.

Members of the public are advised to report wildfires or suspicious behaviour to emergency services by dialling 999.

Water safety concerns raised alongside fire risks

The NFCC has also issued updated guidance on water safety, warning of the dangers associated with rivers, lakes and other open water during periods of high heat.

According to NFCC data from 2023, 37 percent of people who drowned had not intended to enter the water. The council highlighted the risk of cold water shock, which can affect even strong swimmers.

Phil Garrigan, NFCC Chair, said: “Many drownings happen when people didn’t intend to enter the water, whilst many people are completely caught off guard by just how cold it is.

“It might be warm, but the water is often freezing cold.”

The NFCC advises parents and carers to closely supervise children around water and urges everyone to avoid alcohol before swimming or jumping into open water.

In emergencies, the public is advised to follow the ‘Call, Tell, Throw’ method: call 999, tell the person to float, and throw a floatation device.

If someone finds themselves struggling in water, the NFCC recommends the ‘Float to Live’ approach, which involves tilting the head back, relaxing the body, using gentle hand movements and calling for help when calm.

Long-term support remains a focus for NFCC

The NFCC has stated that while the sector welcomes increased Government collaboration, long-term support will be essential to implement meaningful reform and manage climate-related safety threats.

Phil Garrigan said that the NFCC is committed to working alongside national leadership to ensure services are “properly valued”.

The Council has also called for consistent funding to improve infrastructure, workforce training and community engagement.

Garrigan reiterated the importance of leadership, culture and people-centred reform in delivering better outcomes.

The NFCC said that extreme weather events and changing community risks must be met with updated operational guidance and public cooperation.

Plans for the new College of Fire and Rescue are expected to include leadership development and national training standards, though further details have not yet been announced.

NFCC continues engagement with stakeholders

The NFCC said it will remain in dialogue with Government departments, local authorities and emergency service partners to support the proposed changes and monitor the effectiveness of summer safety campaigns.

Fire Minister Chris Philp said that ongoing collaboration will be essential in the months ahead and noted that updates on resource allocation will follow later in the year.

Phil Garrigan said the NFCC recognises the scale of risk facing the sector and intends to keep working with partners across England to address operational pressures.

The council said that public communication remains a core part of its work during summer months and highlighted the role of local services in community education and risk prevention.

The NFCC confirmed it will continue issuing seasonal guidance and real-time updates through its website and public alert channels.

NFCC responds to UK fire reform plans and summer safety threats: Summary

The NFCC has reported that the UK Government outlined a four-point fire reform agenda at the NFCC Spring Conference.

The agenda includes a revised National Framework, a new training college, workforce productivity and devolved governance.

The Ministerial Advisory Group will support the reform process.

Phil Garrigan welcomed the Government’s collaboration and focus on people and culture.

Housing safety regulations for Residential Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans have been laid before Parliament.

Further updates on funding are expected later in 2025.

The NFCC issued wildfire safety guidance due to ongoing hot weather.

Public advice includes avoiding barbecues, discarding waste responsibly and reporting fires.

The NFCC highlighted that hundreds of wildfires have occurred so far in 2024.

Water safety guidance was also released by the NFCC.

Cold water shock and unintentional drownings were cited as key concerns.

Advice includes the ‘Call, Tell, Throw’ and ‘Float to Live’ methods.

The NFCC said collaboration and awareness remain essential during summer.

NFCC warns of fire service strain after exclusion from Spending Review

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

Government review draws criticism from UK fire chiefs

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has raised concerns about the exclusion of fire and rescue services from the UK Government’s latest Spending Review.

According to the NFCC, the omission poses risks to community safety and reflects a lack of national recognition for fire service contributions to emergency response.

NFCC Chair Phil Garrigan said the service has faced prolonged underfunding, leading to a 25% reduction in firefighter numbers in England since 2008 and deteriorating infrastructure.

The organisation added that it will continue working with the Fire Minister and hopes the broader funding settlement for the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government will include support for fire and rescue services.

The NFCC is the professional voice of fire and rescue services in the UK and operates as an independent membership association and charity.

Long-term funding reductions impact frontline capacity

The NFCC reported that firefighter numbers in England have declined by approximately 11,000 over the past decade.

This figure represents a 25% decrease in wholetime firefighters – those permanently based at fire stations as their main job – since 2008.

The organisation said this decline has placed increased pressure on the remaining workforce and contributed to inconsistency in service delivery across regions.

Phil Garrigan said: “We have seen prolonged disinvestment in fire and rescue services over many years.”

He added: “The reality of this is that we now have 11,000 fewer firefighters than we did a decade ago.”

He continued: “We have fire stations that are falling apart, and we have a big challenge in delivering consistency across services.”

National recognition of fire and rescue role called for

The NFCC said the absence of fire and rescue services from the Spending Review fails to reflect the role they play in responding to major emergencies.

Phil Garrigan said: “Today’s Spending Review makes no direct mention of fire and rescue services and that is concerning.

“Our communities already understand that firefighters are on the frontline response to every major incident our country faces, and we need government to recognise that too.”

He continued: “If we are to continue to keep communities safe and do justice to the incredible work of fire and rescue staff, there must be a fundamental shift in how we value this service at a national level.”

Commitment to collaboration despite uncertain funding

Despite uncertainty around future finances, the NFCC said it remains committed to engaging with government to secure support.

Garrigan said: “Our financial position is uncertain, but we are committed to working with the Fire Minister.”

He added: “Our hope is that fire and rescue services will be supported through the broader settlement for the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.”

The NFCC confirmed that further information on the financial challenges facing the sector is available on its website.

Broader implications for fire service infrastructure and planning

The NFCC said the combination of staff reductions and ageing infrastructure has implications for the ability of fire services to respond effectively to emergencies.

It added that differences in funding and resourcing between local services may affect response times, training and community engagement.

The organisation noted that addressing these challenges will require structural reforms and sustained investment across the UK.

It also emphasised that national recognition of the sector’s contributions is key to ensuring long-term resilience and preparedness.

NFCC warns of fire service strain after exclusion from Spending Review: Summary

The NFCC has responded to the UK Government’s June 2025 Spending Review.

The organisation said the review made no direct mention of fire and rescue services.

NFCC Chair Phil Garrigan said this was concerning.

He stated that fire services have seen prolonged disinvestment over many years.

The NFCC said firefighter numbers in England have dropped by 11,000 since 2008.

This represents a 25% reduction in wholetime firefighters.

The organisation also said some fire stations are in poor condition.

It highlighted difficulties in achieving consistency between local services.

The NFCC said national recognition of the sector’s role is needed.

It expressed hope for support via the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government settlement.

The organisation confirmed its commitment to working with the Fire Minister.

It described the financial position of the sector as uncertain.

The NFCC is the professional voice of the UK fire and rescue service.

It is a charity and independent membership body.

Fire and rescue services in England face funding shortfall as incident rates rise

by Breaking NewsFloodingSearch and Rescue

Fire and rescue incident demand rises 20% in England

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has reported that fire and rescue services in England attended over 600,000 incidents in 2024, a 20% increase compared with 2014.

According to NFCC analysis of Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government data, fire and rescue services responded to 600,185 incidents in the year ending December 2024, compared to 499,934 incidents in 2014.

The NFCC said the number of non-fire incidents has increased by 65% over the same period, from 128,488 in 2014 to 211,631 in 2024.

Collaboration incidents and public health emergencies increase demands

The NFCC reported that in 2024, fire and rescue services in England attended 72,694 collaboration incidents, an 11% increase on the previous year.

It said these included responding to incidents alongside other emergency services, assisting entry and exit, and attending suicide-related events.

The NFCC stated that the number of suicide-related incidents attended by fire and rescue services rose from 1,119 in 2014 to 3,184 in 2024, an increase of 184%.

The organisation noted that such incidents have steadily increased in the last decade, alongside wider public health challenges.

Climate change increases wildfire and flooding callouts

According to the NFCC, the number of flooding incidents attended by fire and rescue services has increased by 18% in recent years.

It said the 5-year rolling average rose from 13,854 between 2012 and 2019, to 16,412 between 2019 and 2024.

The NFCC added that 225 wildfires had already been attended as of 27 May 2025, compared with 34 for the same period in 2024 and 106 in 2022, which was a record year for wildfires.

The council stated that these trends show fire and rescue services are responding to risks directly linked to the climate crisis.

Workforce reductions and underinvestment raise concerns

The NFCC said the number of wholetime firefighters in England has fallen by 25% since 2008, a reduction of approximately 11,000 personnel.

It estimated that fire and rescue services have lost nearly £1 billion in capital investment since the removal of the capital funding grant in 2014/15.

According to the NFCC, this loss has affected the ability of services to maintain and modernise infrastructure, including fire stations.

NFCC Chair Phil Garrigan said: “These figures are unequivocal – fire and rescue services are busier now than they were 10 years ago, and we are taking on more responsibility, not less.

“The risks faced are now more challenging and more complex.

“Despite this fact, we are seeing firefighter numbers falling, whereas all other public services are seeing their numbers return to pre-austerity levels.”

Garrigan added: “Our work to support our blue light colleagues is crucial in maintaining public safety and we welcome the opportunity to make a real difference but, if it is to be sustained against a backdrop of increasing demand, we need to see investment back into the fire and rescue service.”

“If we leave fire and rescue services without proper financial support and investment, we risk undermining public and firefighter safety.

“When it comes to wildfires, flooding and terrorism – fire and rescue services are right at the heart of the response.

“If we fail to invest, then we need to be prepared to answer to the communities that rely on these services in their greatest time of need.”

Garrigan continued: “The world has changed, and we cannot rely on an outdated funding model that has removed all capital funding and hasn’t responded to a changing demand profile or the impact of the climate change crisis to underpin a service as crucial as fire and rescue.”

Fire and rescue services in England face funding shortfall as incident rates rise: Summary

The National Fire Chiefs Council has reported that fire and rescue services in England responded to 600,185 incidents in 2024.

This represents a 20% increase compared to 2014.

The number of non-fire incidents rose from 128,488 in 2014 to 211,631 in 2024.

Collaboration-related callouts increased by 11% in 2024, reaching 72,694 incidents.

Suicide-related incidents increased by 184% over the last decade.

The 5-year average for flooding incidents rose by 18% since 2019.

Fire and rescue services responded to 225 wildfires by 27 May 2025.

This is over 100 more than during the same period in 2022.

The NFCC estimates a £1 billion capital investment loss since 2014/15.

Firefighter numbers in England have declined by 25% since 2008.

The NFCC has called for renewed investment in fire and rescue services.