FIRE Conference 2024 to drive collaboration and address key fire safety issues

by Associations and OrganisationsEventsFeatured News

Key issues to be addressed at the FIRE Conference 2024

The annual FIRE Conference will return on 24 October 2024, as reported by The Institution of Fire Engineers.

Developed and hosted by the Fire Protection Association, Institution of Fire Engineers, National Fire Chiefs Council, and the Fire Sector Federation, the one-day event will feature a comprehensive programme tackling critical topics within the fire safety sector.

Key subjects for this year’s conference include the reasons behind deregulation and its management, updates on enforcement, emergency tactical response, future-proofing fire risk assessors, and an analysis of the Luton car park fire.

The British Standards Institution and the Royal Institute of British Architects will also host plenary sessions during the day.

Insight from Dr Gavin Dunn on the conference’s significance

Dr Gavin Dunn, Managing Director of the FPA, highlighted the importance of collaboration in advancing fire safety.

He said: “With the introduction of the Building Safety Act and the changing nature of risk, it is more important now than ever that we work collaboratively across sectors, as only together can we successfully move fire safety forwards in an integrated way.”

Reflecting on his new role, Dr Dunn added: “Having assumed leadership of the FPA earlier this year, I am very much looking forward to my first FIRE Conference and building on the progress that has been made in recent years.

“The Conference provides a much-needed touchpoint for those who can influence change to consider approaches and solutions to the challenges we face as fire safety professionals so we can continue to improve the built environment through the convergence of life safety and property protection.”

Continuation of the hybrid format and sponsorship announcements

Following a successful event in 2023 that saw over 500 delegates, the FIRE Conference will maintain its hybrid format.

It will be hosted both in-person at the IET, Savoy Place in London, and online.

The event organisers have announced Redplug Group as the headline sponsor, with additional sponsors and exhibitors including Sentura Group (Firechief), Coopers Fire, Firefly, Adexon, and Distinction Door.

The Worshipful Company of Firefighters will host their annual fundraising dinner at the IET immediately after the conference.

Conference tickets are now on sale, and sponsorship packages are in high demand, with workshop partner opportunities and exhibition stands still available.

Further event details and participation opportunities

Detailed information about the event, including the programme and sponsorship costs, will be available on the organisers’ websites.

The FIRE Conference aims to provide a crucial platform for discussing, debating, sharing knowledge, and driving progress in an era of significant change and reform in fire safety.

236 accidental water-related fatalities in the UK in 2023

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsSafety

Public urged to respect the water as summer arrives

As reported by the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), June and October saw the highest number of accidental water-related fatalities in the UK in 2023, with 28 lives lost in each month.

This unusual pattern is concerning experts, as drownings typically peak in July and August.

As summer approaches, the public is urged to respect the water and take precautions to prevent last year’s rise from becoming a long-term trend.

As the weather warms across the UK, more people will be spending time near water.

Despite rising air temperatures, water temperatures remain dangerously cold, and many people are unaware of risks such as Cold Water Shock.

The National Water Safety Forum (NWSF) is encouraging people to learn about these risks and how to help themselves and others in a water-related emergency.

Water-related fatalities and their causes

In 2023, 236 people in the UK died in accidental water-related incidents, aligning with the five-year average of 243 but ten more than in 2022.

Additionally, there are 211 further cases where the cause is still unknown, which may increase the number of accidental fatalities as coroners provide more information.

The 2023 Water Incident Database (WAID), maintained by the NWSF, reveals several key findings:

  • Inland waterways accounted for 63% of accidental drownings, including rivers, canals, lakes, reservoirs, and quarries.
  • Males represented 83% of accidental fatalities.
  • June had 28 fatalities, followed by 20 in July and 21 in August.
  • Everyday activities like walking and running accounted for 48% of fatalities, with 88 victims not intending to enter the water.
  • Of the 236 fatalities, 157 occurred in England, 47 in Scotland, 28 in Wales, and 4 in Northern Ireland.

#RespectTheWater campaign

The #RespectTheWater campaign, run by the NWSF, aims to provide life-saving advice and encourage people to take personal responsibility for their safety near water.

This year’s focus is on knowing how to help others in trouble.

The key steps are:

  • Call 999 for help.
  • Tell the person in trouble to float on their back.
  • Throw something that floats, like a life ring or an inflatable toy.

The Forum will promote the #RespectTheWater campaign throughout the summer, including on World Drowning Prevention Day on 25th July.

Expert advice on water safety

Dawn Whittaker, NWSF Chair and National Fire Chiefs Council Lead for Drowning Prevention and Water Safety, emphasised the importance of awareness: “These new figures give us a poignant reminder about the importance of raising awareness of water safety and drowning prevention.

“We will continue to urge the public to understand the dangers and to learn the importance of knowing what to do in an emergency: if you see someone in trouble in the water, the best way you can help is by staying calm, staying on land, and following the 3-step rescue guide – Call, Tell, Throw.”

Whittaker highlighted the unpredictability of summer weather: “It’s hard to predict what this summer will bring, but with the increased likelihood of extreme weather events like heatwaves and flooding, we will be promoting the #RespectTheWater campaign to help people stay safe while enjoying their time in and by the water.”

Rise in water sports and safety initiatives

Whittaker also noted the rise in participation in water sports and associated incidents: “Over the last few years, the number of people participating in water sports and water-based activities has risen as has the number of incidents associated with activities such as stand-up paddleboarding and open water swimming.

“We want people to enjoy the water safely, so we will continue to focus on guidance, education, and awareness for the public.”

The NWSF will continue its efforts to reduce deaths and injuries from drowning in the UK.

Whittaker concluded by referencing global efforts: “We will continue to work together to reduce deaths caused by drowning and water-related injuries in the UK.

“The global water safety community is onboard with a UN resolution recognising the scale and burden of drowning, calling for urgent international action.”

NFCC addresses Home Affairs Select Committee’s conclusions on fire and rescue services culture

by Featured News

Home Affairs Select Committee findings

On 23 May 2024, the Home Affairs Select Committee released a letter to the Home Secretary outlining their conclusions following an inquiry into the culture within fire and rescue services.

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) responded, emphasising the need for urgent action to address poor culture and behaviour in the sector.

A spokesperson for the NFCC stated: “The findings of the Home Affairs Select Committee, following their inquiry into culture in fire and rescue services, drives home the urgency with which we must act to tackle poor culture and behaviour where it exists.”

NFCC culture action plan

The NFCC highlighted their recent update on the Culture Action Plan, showcasing the progress made within the sector to drive change.

However, the spokesperson acknowledged that more work is needed to create a safe and inclusive environment for all employees.

They said: “The recent update we published on the NFCC Culture Action Plan highlighted the work that has been undertaken across the sector and the impact this is having to drive change.

“However, it also emphasises that there is a significant distance to go to make the sector a truly safe and inclusive place for all people to work.”

Upcoming HMICFRS report

The Home Affairs Select Committee’s findings come ahead of an anticipated thematic report on misconduct from His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS).

This forthcoming report is expected to reinforce the necessity for leaders within the sector to take decisive steps to eliminate poor behaviour.

The NFCC spokesperson commented: “With His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services also due to publish their thematic report into misconduct in the coming months, this, alongside the Committee’s findings today, reinforces the impetus with which all leaders in the sector must take concrete steps to root out poor behaviour.”

Leadership and accountability

The Committee’s letter emphasized the importance of leadership in fostering cultural change and recommended a review of current processes to address poor leadership within the fire and rescue services.

They suggested that enforceable standards may be necessary to ensure accountability and the implementation of the Core Code of Ethics for Fire and Rescue Services.

The Committee also pointed out the role of the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) in promoting a harassment-free workplace culture, highlighting the need for the FBU to actively oppose discrimination and ensure transparency in handling complaints.

First ever World Fire Congress co-chaired by UK held in Washington DC

by Associations and OrganisationsEventsFeatured News

International collaboration at World Fire Congress

The first ever World Fire Congress was held in Washington DC from 7th to 8th May 2024.

The event, hosted by the United States government, aimed to address the global challenges faced by fire and rescue services.

The Congress brought together representatives from 54 countries, including UK delegates Mark Hardingham, Chair of the NFCC, and Sarah Gawley, Director of Fire and Major Events at the Home Office.

The Congress was co-chaired by US Fire Administrator Dr Lori Moore-Merrell and NFCC Chair Mark Hardingham.

During the event, the World Fire Congress Charter was signed, demonstrating a commitment to international collaboration on fire-related issues.

At the conclusion of the event, it was announced that the UK would host the next Congress in 2026.

Focus on key fire and rescue challenges

The Congress covered four main themes over its two-day duration.

On the first day, discussions centered around structural fires, especially those in tall buildings, and the impacts of climate change, including wildfires and flooding.

The second day focused on emerging energy technologies, particularly the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries and battery energy storage systems, as well as firefighter health and wellbeing.

Delegates from various countries shared their experiences and insights on these topics.

The event highlighted the importance of addressing these challenges collectively.

Most countries in attendance agreed to participate in online communities of practice, which will meet monthly to share knowledge and progress on these key issues.

Future plans for the World Fire Congress

It was agreed that the World Fire Congress would rotate around different continents.

After the UK hosts in 2026, the United Arab Emirates is scheduled to host the event in 2028.

The US will facilitate online communities of practice for each of the four main themes, promoting continuous collaboration and knowledge exchange.

NFCC Chair Mark Hardingham expressed his gratitude to the US hosts and emphasised the importance of global cooperation.

He said: “It was a huge honour to be in Washington to co-chair this historic event, which is the first of its kind.

“I want to express my gratitude to our US hosts for their hospitality and for putting on such a fantastic Congress.

“The Congress stood as an important reminder that the UK FRS is not alone in the challenges it faces, whether that be fires in tall buildings or dealing with the worst impacts of adverse weather.

“I firmly believe that there’s a huge amount to be gained by sharing ideas and expertise with global partners and working collaboratively to find the necessary solutions.”

IFSJ Comment

By bringing together delegates from 54 countries, the World Fire Congress facilitated valuable discussions on key challenges such as structural fires, the impacts of climate change, and the risks posed by emerging energy technologies.

The signing of the World Fire Congress Charter underscores a collective commitment to addressing these issues through shared knowledge and cooperation.

The decision to rotate the Congress among different continents ensures that diverse perspectives and experiences will continue to shape the global approach to fire and rescue challenges.

With the UK set to host the next Congress in 2026, there is an opportunity for further advancements in international collaboration.

The establishment of online communities of practice will enable ongoing dialogue and progress, fostering a global network of expertise.

NFCC urges stronger regulations for sprinklers and AWSS in England

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsFire Suppression

NFCC advocates for enhanced sprinkler regulations

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has called on the Government to introduce stricter regulations mandating sprinklers and other automatic water suppression systems (AWSS) in England.

The NFCC’s position statement, published on 14 May 2024, urges the installation of sprinklers in all new care homes, schools, and student accommodation, regardless of building height.

According to the position paper, existing schools, student accommodations, and care homes undergoing refurbishment should also be retrofitted with sprinklers.

Additionally, the NFCC recommends that the Government mandate the retrofitting of sprinklers in all existing residential buildings over 11 metres, based on a risk assessment.

As reported by the NFCC, current regulations in England lag behind those in Scotland and Wales, which have more comprehensive requirements for sprinkler installations.

Current regulations and recent incidents

In England, the NFCC has consistently advocated for the retrofitting of sprinklers in high-rise residential buildings over 18 metres or at least seven storeys, particularly those with a single staircase.

Scotland requires sprinklers in all blocks of flats, care homes, social housing, and schools, while Wales mandates them in all new single dwellings, care homes, student halls, boarding houses, and specific hostels.

Recent high-profile fires, such as the Beechmere Extra Care Village (2019) and Newgrange Care Home (2017), have highlighted the risks faced by care home residents during evacuations.

Current evacuation strategies rely heavily on staff being able to evacuate residents before smoke compromises escape routes, which can significantly endanger both staff and residents if unsuccessful.

NFCC’s focus on schools and care homes

The NFCC’s position statement also emphasizes the importance of mandatory sprinklers in schools.

In Scotland and Wales, sprinklers are compulsory in all schools, regardless of height.

Jonathan Dyson, NFCC Lead for Sprinklers and AWSS, said: “Sprinklers have been used for over a century and are consistently reliable at saving lives and reducing injuries.

“Analysis shows they’re 99% effective in extinguishing or controlling a fire.”

Dyson added: “NFCC welcomed the lower height threshold for sprinkler installation in new residential buildings to 11 metres, but we remain concerned that there’s still no requirement to retrofit existing residential buildings with sprinklers.

“We’ve consistently urged the Government to make it a requirement to retrofit all existing residential buildings over 11 metres on a risk-assessed basis.”

The impact on communities and vulnerable populations

Mark Hardingham, NFCC Chair, highlighted the broader community impact of school fires: “Thankfully, deaths and injuries in school fires are rare.

“However, it’s important that we protect schools as they are vital community assets.

“School fires can be devastating, and the use of sprinklers is proven to not only minimise the disruption to a pupil’s education but also the impact on their family and the community.”

Hardingham also addressed concerns about fire safety in care homes: “We also have serious concerns about fire safety in care homes.

“Sprinklers are critical to protecting vulnerable residents as well as employees.

“Installing sprinklers in care homes would reduce the likelihood of a fire spreading beyond the room in which it originated.”

He added: “We welcomed the Government’s proposal requiring sprinklers be installed in all new care homes regardless of height.

“However, it must go further to include existing care homes undergoing refurbishment.”

IFSJ Comment

The NFCC’s call for more robust sprinkler regulations underscores a critical need for enhanced fire safety measures across various types of buildings in England.

The proposed changes aim to align England’s regulations with those already in place in Scotland and Wales, ensuring a higher level of protection for residents, students, and vulnerable populations.

The position statement points to significant gaps in the current regulations, particularly regarding existing buildings.

Retrofitting sprinklers in older buildings, especially those over 11 metres, would address a major safety concern.

The effectiveness of sprinklers, highlighted by NFCC leaders, shows a proven track record of not only controlling fires but also saving lives and reducing injuries.

Furthermore, the focus on schools and care homes reflects the NFCC’s commitment to protecting some of the most vulnerable members of society.

School fires can disrupt communities significantly, while care home fires pose a direct threat to residents who may have limited mobility.

The NFCC’s recommendations aim to mitigate these risks and ensure safer living and learning environments.

UK fire sector reacts to HMICFRS 2023 report

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

Overview of the HMICFRS 2023 Annual Report on Fire and Rescue Services

Published on 9 May 2024, the “State of Fire and Rescue: The Annual Assessment of Fire and Rescue Services in England 2023” marks His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Fire & Rescue Services’ second report to the Secretary of State under section 28B of the Fire and Rescue Services Act 2004.

This report assesses the effectiveness and efficiency of fire and rescue services across England, drawing on data and insights gathered from inspection reports issued between 20 January 2023 and 31 March 2024.

The annual report provides a comprehensive evaluation of fire and rescue services, offering insights into their current state, challenges, and areas of commendation.

By systematically analysing the inspection findings, the report aims to furnish an overall view of the sector’s performance, identifying both strengths and areas requiring attention.

This evaluation serves as a crucial tool for ongoing improvement, guiding both policy-making and operational strategies within fire and rescue services.

NFCC Response

NFCC Chair highlights challenges and advancements in fire and rescue services

Responding to His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services’ (HMICFRS) latest report, the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) Chair, Mark Hardingham, emphasised the crucial role and dedication of fire and rescue services in ensuring public safety.

According to Hardingham, the HMICFRS report, titled ‘State of Fire and Rescue: Annual Assessment of Fire and Rescue Services in England 2023’, provides a well-deserved recognition of the dedication seen across the sector.

Hardingham said: “Our fire and rescue services undertake a crucial role in keeping communities safe – they do this across a variety of different fire service roles – often moving towards danger, whilst helping others to escape it.”

NFCC’s adaptation to changing community needs

The NFCC Chair also acknowledged the need for the fire and rescue sector to adapt to the changing needs of communities.

The report highlighted various challenges, including financial pressures, recruitment challenges, and the sustainability of the on-call duty system.

Hardingham underlined the importance of these adaptations in ensuring the safety and well-being of communities across England.

“We wholeheartedly agree that our sector must adapt to meet the changing needs of our communities,” Hardingham stated.

He also emphasised the positive progress in response to the recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, showcasing the NFCC’s commitment to continual improvement.

Focus on organisational culture and leadership

Hardingham further highlighted that enhancing organisational culture within fire and rescue services remains a priority.

He pointed out that fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity is vital to maintaining public trust and ensuring the sector remains a safe and welcoming place for all.

“Our number one priority is improving organisational culture across fire and rescue services,” Hardingham noted.

He also mentioned the ongoing challenges with misconduct and the collective role in addressing these issues across the fire and rescue services.

Additionally, the NFCC supports the proposal for investment into a College of Fire and Rescue, which Hardingham believes will further benefit the sector and enhance the quality of service provided to communities.

FBU response

Following the publication of the State of Fire and Rescue report by His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS), Matt Wrack, General Secretary of the Fire Brigades Union (FBU), has voiced significant criticisms regarding its content and focus.

Wrack highlighted ongoing issues that he believes were inadequately addressed in the report.

“This report does not add much to the discussion over the future of the fire and rescue service and the issues it faces,” Wrack stated.

He pointed out the severe impact of budget cuts and workforce reductions: “Since 2010, we have lost 30% of central government funding, and one in five firefighter jobs have disappeared.

“Response times are worse than ever. The report has little to say about this.”

Urgent action needed on equality

Wrack also criticised the HMICFRS for its oversight regarding workplace discrimination within the fire and rescue services.

“It is right to note the urgent need for action on equalities. Yet there is little reflection on the inspectorate’s failure to spot serious instances of discrimination, harassment and bullying in a number of fire and rescue services,” he remarked.

The role of the FBU and collective bargaining

The FBU General Secretary affirmed the union’s influential role in promoting equality and addressing issues within the fire service.

“Andy Cooke is right to recognise the influence of the FBU. As the only democratic voice for the firefighting profession, we have played a leading role in fighting for equality in the fire service for decades,” Wrack explained.

He expressed disapproval of perceived attacks on the established collective bargaining system: “We reject any attack on collective bargaining.

“The National Joint Council already provides a highly successful framework for facilitating agreements on pay, conditions, the role of firefighters and progress on equalities.”

Wrack also noted the lack of engagement from HMICFRS with the FBU on these matters: “Mr Cooke fails to acknowledge this work.

“We have always offered to meet HMICFRS to discuss the role and function of collective bargaining. That offer has not been taken up.”

Concerns over proposed changes to fire service structure

Wrack strongly opposed suggestions for aligning fire services more closely with policing models and structural combinations.

“Instead, the report doggedly pushes an agenda which has little support in the fire and rescue service.

Pushing a policing model onto the service, or seeking to combine structures, undermines public trust,” he commented.

He further argued against proposals for operational independence for chief fire officers, viewing them as a threat to essential accountability mechanisms: “Operational independence for chief fire officers is a dangerous proposition, further undermining vital systems of accountability and democracy for our fire services.”

Howler releases whitepaper on changes to fire evacuation protocols in UK flats

by Featured NewsResearchSafety

Howler unveils new guidance on simultaneous evacuation in residential buildings

Howler, a UK site fire safety expert group, has recently published a whitepaper titled “NFCC Guidance: Temporary Change to Simultaneous Evacuation in Flats.”

This document arrives as various councils across the UK are failing to meet fire safety standards, as reported by Howler.

Gary Askew, the Managing Director at Howler, highlighted the significance of the whitepaper: “Following the unprecedented national tragedy at Grenfell Tower in June 2017, the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) issued guidance to property managers about steps to be taken where there were concerns around cladding issues.

“As time went by and more information became available, the guidance was updated and refined.

“Our whitepaper takes a good look at that guidance, examining the problem and the solutions available.”

The current state of evacuation policies and new approaches

The whitepaper discusses the persistence of the ‘stay-put’ policy in thousands of residential flats across the UK, a strategy where residents remain in their flats during a fire elsewhere in the building, feasible only with proper fire compartmentalisation according to the Building Regulations.

However, the Grenfell tragedy revealed the catastrophic failure of such compartmentalisation, prompting a reassessment of fire safety strategies.

Askew continued: “What occurred at Grenfell was that fire separation failed completely, and there is now an awareness amongst Fire Risk Assessors that there may be times when a stay-put is not adequate, and instead a building must be immediately, or ‘simultaneously’, evacuated in the event of a fire.”

Howler’s response and innovations in fire safety solutions

Responding to the NFCC’s guidelines, Howler has launched a new initiative called Howler Special Services.

This service is aimed at facilitating changes in the evacuation strategies of large residential buildings through the installation of radio-linked fire alarm systems.

These systems, which can be temporary until remedial works are completed or upgraded to permanent systems, are designed to replace the Waking Watch service.

“We’ve been installing fire safety solutions for over 30 years, and in response to the NFCC’s guidance, we’ve just launched Howler Special Services which has been designed to include the installation of radio-linked Fire Alarm systems specifically to facilitate the change in the evacuation strategy of large residential buildings,” Askew elaborated.

IFSJ Comment

The release of Howler’s whitepaper and the introduction of new specialised services reflect an adaptive response to evolving fire safety standards and legal requirements in the UK.

As the industry continues to deal with the implications of the Grenfell Tower disaster, initiatives like those by Howler are pivotal in ensuring that safety regulations are not only met but enhanced to prevent future tragedies.

National Fire Chiefs Council releases culture and inclusion report update

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking News

Overview of the NFCC culture and inclusion update

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has recently published an update regarding its ongoing efforts towards culture and inclusion within the UK fire and rescue services.

This update marks a significant point in the NFCC’s journey to foster an open and welcoming environment, according to their Culture Action Plan.

Despite the progress noted in the report, challenges remain in achieving a fully inclusive sector.

The publication follows the first anniversary of the NFCC’s Culture Summit, which convened various sector partners to address these critical issues.

Post-summit developments have been guided by insights from the Culture Summit and a subsequent report by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) on values and culture within these services.

Progress and challenges outlined

According to the update, there have been notable advances in several key areas outlined in the Culture Action Plan.

These include the adoption of the Core Code of Ethics and the embedding of Fire Standards, which define high-quality practices across the services.

Additionally, new guidance and training on Safeguarding have been developed to support these initiatives.

However, the report also emphasizes the considerable work still required to reach the desired levels of inclusivity and safety.

Mark Hardingham, NFCC Chair, expressed his views on the matter: “Tackling poor culture remains the number one priority for NFCC.

“We have taken, and continue to take, concrete steps to root out poor behaviour and we’re beginning to see some of the impact this is having in the sector.

“Yet we are under no illusions about how far we still must go.”

Continuous efforts and sector-wide collaboration

Over the past year, the NFCC has been actively involved in various activities to promote cultural change within the fire and rescue services.

This includes presenting evidence to the Home Affairs Select Committee and the Senedd’s Equalities and Social Justice Committee.

Their collaborative efforts with HMICFRS, national employers, and trade unions have also been pivotal in supporting the ongoing inspections and the broader adoption of NFCC’s tools and guidance.

The report highlights the lack of a direct mandate for NFCC to enforce specific actions but notes the positive reception and implementation of their recommendations across the services.

NFCC urges change amid allegations of sexism in Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

NFCC calls for cultural reform in fire and rescue services

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has issued a strong statement addressing the need for cultural change within the UK fire and rescue services, following recent allegations of sexism reported by ITV.

The statement emphasized that misogyny and derogatory language are “entirely unacceptable” and that such behaviour has no place in the sector.

“Our number one priority is to tackle poor culture where it is found to exist and ensure that our sector is a safe and welcoming place for all people to work,” the NFCC stated.

They acknowledged the slow pace of progress across the sector and the courageous efforts of those speaking out not just for justice but for change.

Recent allegations stir controversy

This call for action comes in response to reports from ITV on 23 April 2024, uncovering disturbing messages exchanged by senior officers at the Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service.

The chief fire officer and his assistant were found to have used offensive language towards female colleagues. The messages were particularly targeted at Area Manager Jan Morris, who resigned after discovering the comments.

Adam Matthews, the assistant chief fire officer, was quoted in these messages from February last year, further disparaging Morris and other female colleagues.

The exposure of these messages has led to public outcry and intensified scrutiny of the service’s workplace environment.

Impact on individuals and sector scrutiny

Jan Morris, affected by the offensive remarks, told ITV News: “I’ve lost my career. I’m stepping away from the job I’ve loved for 26 years because I’ve been made to feel so devalued and unwelcome.”

Her departure highlights the personal and professional toll such incidents can have on individuals.

The NFCC reaffirmed their commitment to improving the culture within fire and rescue services and supporting those who have bravely spoken out.

The recent allegations have prompted a wider discussion on the need for systemic change across the sector.

IFSJ Comment

The recent revelations about the Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service underscore a critical need for cultural transformation within fire and rescue services across the UK.

Ensuring a respectful and inclusive workplace is crucial not just for the well-being of the employees but for the integrity and effectiveness of the fire and rescue services as a whole.

Campaign “Be Water Aware” launched to address accidental drownings

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsSafety

Overview of the Be Water Aware campaign

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has launched the “Be Water Aware” campaign running from the 22nd to the 28th of April.

The initiative aims to increase public awareness about the risks of accidental drowning and to provide safety advice.

This is especially critical as the warmer months approach, a period which historically sees an increase in drowning incidents.

According to data from the Water Incident Database for 2022, around 40% of those who drowned had not planned to enter the water, with many incidents resulting from slips, trips, and falls.

Statistics and reasons for drowning

The campaign highlights the dangers associated with water-related activities such as swimming and jumping into water bodies, which are often underestimated, particularly by individuals with limited experience in outdoor swimming.

Factors such as unseen hazards and cold water shock contribute to the difficulty even strong swimmers may face in such environments.

The campaign also disseminates potentially life-saving advice, including the “Float to Live” strategy, for those finding themselves in trouble in the water.

IFSJ Comment

The “Be Water Aware” campaign is a crucial initiative by the NFCC to mitigate the risks associated with water-related activities as we approach the warmer months.

By combining educational efforts with heartfelt personal stories, the campaign seeks to foster a greater understanding of water safety, potentially saving lives.

It is imperative for community members, especially parents and guardians, to engage in open dialogues about water safety to prevent such tragedies in the future.