Northern Ireland’s road safety campaign highlights the human cost of collisions

by EventsFeatured NewsSafety

Road safety week launches with call for responsibility

As reported by the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS), Road Safety Week 2024, taking place from 17–23 November, is centred on the human impact of road traffic collisions.

According to the Department for Infrastructure (DfI), one person dies on average every week on Northern Ireland’s roads, with 57 fatalities recorded so far in 2024.

DfI Minister John O’Dowd emphasised the far-reaching consequences of road collisions: “These are people, not just a statistic, and their lives are shattered and will never be the same again.” He also acknowledged the critical role of emergency services and urged the public to adopt safer behaviours.

The campaign encourages road users to consider the long-term impact of reckless driving and to share road safety messages within their communities.

Emergency services highlight their role and experiences

The NIFRS and other emergency services underlined the reality of their work during collisions.

Marcus Wright, Assistant Chief Fire & Rescue Officer, noted that in 2023 alone, firefighters attended 723 road traffic incidents and rescued 201 people trapped in vehicles.

He stated: “We are urging you to drive to the road conditions, don’t speed, allow more time for your journey and don’t get distracted.” He highlighted the challenges of winter weather, including black ice and flooding, as factors that increase risks.

Chief Superintendent Sam Donaldson also described the emotional and operational toll on first responders and reiterated the importance of recognising and avoiding the “Fatal Five” driving behaviours: speeding, drink or drug driving, careless driving, seatbelt neglect, and mobile phone use.

Ambulance service reflects on road accident aftermath

Northern Ireland Ambulance Service Chief Executive Michael Bloomfield shed light on the challenges faced by paramedics who attend road traffic collisions.

“Our crews have witnessed harrowing scenes that would make most people recoil,” Bloomfield said.

He described the trauma of losing young lives and the lingering impact on emergency responders who must process the devastation caused by avoidable incidents.

Bloomfield urged caution during the holiday season, stressing that even minor decisions can prevent life-altering accidents.

Road safety pledge promotes personal accountability

The DfI is encouraging the public to take the ‘Road Safety Pledge’ as part of its ‘Share the Road to Zero’ programme.

This initiative focuses on individual accountability and positive road behaviours for all users, including drivers, passengers, pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists.

The Department highlighted evidence showing that over 90% of crashes are caused by human error.

By taking the pledge, participants commit to safer practices, such as slowing down, avoiding distractions, and refraining from driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

The programme is open to individuals and organisations, with free resources available to promote road safety awareness.

Every road victim counts: summary

Road Safety Week 2024 in Northern Ireland, running from 17–23 November, focuses on the human cost of road traffic collisions.

DfI reports show that 57 people have died on the region’s roads in 2024.

Emergency services shared their experiences, highlighting the emotional and physical toll of responding to accidents.

DfI Minister John O’Dowd and representatives from NIFRS and the ambulance service urged safer behaviours and shared the “Fatal Five” driving risks.

The ‘Share the Road to Zero’ campaign promotes individual accountability, encouraging road users to take a safety pledge.

Evidence indicates that most crashes are caused by human error and are therefore preventable.

Northern Ireland appoints Alistair Cathcart as NIFRS non-executive member

by Featured NewsPeople

Alistair Cathcart appointed as NIFRS non-executive member

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt has confirmed the appointment of Alistair Cathcart as a Non-Executive (District Councillor) Member of the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS).

The appointment begins on 20 November 2024 and will run until 19 November 2028.

As a Non-Executive Member, Cathcart will dedicate three days per month to the role and will receive an annual remuneration of £6,643.

Role of NIFRS non-executive members

Non-Executive Member appointments to NIFRS are governed by the Code of Practice issued by the Commissioner for Public Appointments for Northern Ireland.

These roles are part of a board structure comprising the Chief Fire and Rescue Officer, a Non-Executive Chair, and ten other Non-Executive Members, including four District Councillors.

This structure is designed to provide governance and oversight of NIFRS operations across Northern Ireland.

NIFRS operational responsibilities

NIFRS operates across Northern Ireland, covering over 5,500 square miles.

The service responds to fires, road traffic collisions, and other emergencies, including chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear incidents.

In addition to emergency responses, NIFRS engages in community initiatives aimed at reducing risks and promoting safety.

With 68 fire stations and a workforce of Whole-time, On-Call, and Volunteer Firefighters, NIFRS ensures coverage for a diverse range of emergencies.

Importance of NIFRS in Northern Ireland

NIFRS operates under key legislation, including the Fire Safety Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2010 and the Fire and Rescue Services (Emergencies) Order (Northern Ireland) 2011.

Its role includes tackling serious flooding, transport incidents, and search and rescue operations, demonstrating its vital function in ensuring public safety.

Northern Ireland appoints Alistair Cathcart as NIFRS non-executive member: Summary

The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) has appointed Alistair Cathcart as a Non-Executive (District Councillor) Member.

His tenure will run from 20 November 2024 to 19 November 2028, with a commitment of three days per month and an annual remuneration of £6,643.

NIFRS serves over 5,500 square miles of Northern Ireland, responding to a wide range of emergencies and engaging in community safety initiatives.

This appointment aligns with governance practices established by the Commissioner for Public Appointments for Northern Ireland.

NIFRS operates 68 fire stations with a diverse workforce to ensure public safety and emergency response across the region.

Public invited to share views on Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service’s 5-year plan

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Public consultation opens on NIFRS community risk management plan

The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) has launched a public consultation to gather input on its Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP) for the next five years, as reported by the NIFRS.

The consultation aims to enhance community safety and improve fire and rescue services across Northern Ireland.

The CRMP outlines how the NIFRS plans to work efficiently, in partnership with others, to ensure that Northern Ireland remains a safe place to live and work.

The consultation will remain open until 9 January 2025, with documents and response forms available on the NIFRS website.

NIFRS Deputy Chief Fire Officer explains purpose of the plan

NIFRS Deputy Chief Fire & Rescue Officer Paul Harper emphasised the importance of public input into the new plan.

He stated: “Seeking your feedback on our draft CRMP is a key point as we outline how we intend to shape the future of fire and rescue provision in Northern Ireland.”

Harper explained that the CRMP sets out the service’s approach to managing risk and enhancing safety across the region.

He noted: “The plan sets out who we are as a service, the work that we carry out, and the steps that we take to respond effectively to an emergency situation as well as how we try to prevent emergencies happening in the first place.”

Commitment to improving service delivery and safety

The CRMP aims to ensure the NIFRS continues to provide an efficient and effective service while also managing community risks.

Harper outlined how the plan will achieve this, saying: “It provides supporting risk data and analysis to demonstrate how we will ensure that the right people, with the right skills, are in the right place, at the right time to help keep both the community and our Firefighters safe.”

Harper also highlighted the importance of supporting the needs of NIFRS employees, stating that the consultation will help shape the service for the next five years while ensuring that the organisation remains resilient.

NIFRS seeks input from all sectors of the community

The consultation is open to the public, NIFRS employees, and partners.

Harper said: “It’s important that our community is part of the approach.

“We want to hear your views whether you are a member of the public, an NIFRS employee or one of our partners.

“Your opinion matters to us, and we look forward to engaging with you.”

The consultation allows for wide-ranging feedback, which will be used to set the direction of the NIFRS over the next five years, ensuring the service remains fit for purpose and able to meet the needs of Northern Ireland.

Public invited to share views on Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service’s 5-year plan: Summary

The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) has opened a public consultation on its Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP) for the next five years.

The plan aims to improve community safety and enhance the effectiveness of fire and rescue services across Northern Ireland.

NIFRS Deputy Chief Fire & Rescue Officer Paul Harper explained the importance of public feedback in shaping the service’s future direction.

The CRMP sets out NIFRS’s approach to risk management and the steps it will take to ensure the right people are in place to respond to emergencies.

The consultation, which is open until 9 January 2025, invites input from the public, NIFRS employees, and partners to help shape the future of the service.

Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service introduces online home fire safety check tool for Fire Safety Week

by Featured NewsSafety

NIFRS introduces new fire safety tool for homes in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) has launched a new online Home Fire Safety Check tool to coincide with Fire Safety Week, running from 30 September to 6 October.

As reported by NIFRS, the online tool is designed to help residents identify fire risks in their homes and provide personalised safety advice.

The tool allows users to conduct a self-assessment by answering questions about each room in their house, after which they receive a tailored fire action plan.

This new initiative is part of a wider partnership between the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) and Safelincs.

It is being rolled out across all Fire & Rescue Services in the UK, aiming to raise awareness of fire hazards and promote preventive measures.

Importance of fire safety in homes

Last year, NIFRS responded to 728 house fires, with cooking and electrical issues identified as the leading causes.

Group Commander Paul Morrow of NIFRS said: “We are pleased to offer a new home fire safety tool for the community.

“The online Home Fire Safety Check is a valuable resource to identify and reduce potential fire risks in the home.”

Morrow also encouraged households to complete the assessment and to help others who may not have access to the internet.

He added: “House fires can be devastating. Even if you don’t think you’re at risk, taking the time to complete the assessment can help save lives and reduce the risk of a fire.”

In-person fire safety checks for high-risk households

As part of the initiative, households identified as high-risk through the online tool will be referred for an in-person Home Fire Safety Check.

NIFRS personnel will visit these homes to provide further practical advice on fire safety.

Morrow highlighted the importance of this service, especially for vulnerable groups: “If at the end of the assessment the household has been identified as high risk, they will be referred for an in-person Home Fire Safety Check where NIFRS personnel will visit the home to give further practical advice on fire safety.”

Fire safety collaboration with the Republic of Ireland

Fire Safety Week is a joint effort between NIFRS and the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management in the Republic of Ireland.

This cross-border collaboration is aimed at promoting fire safety in homes and preventing fire-related incidents.

Keith Leonard, Director of the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management in Ireland, spoke at the launch event: “We must be always alert if we are to eliminate potential hazards that could cause fire.

“Being vigilant, keeping mindful of fire safety and practising good fire safety habits is essential.”

The campaign encourages residents to conduct routine safety checks and ensure that working smoke alarms are installed on every level of their homes.

Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service introduces online home fire safety check tool for Fire Safety Week: Summary

Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) has launched an online Home Fire Safety Check tool to promote fire safety during Fire Safety Week (30 September to 6 October).

This tool allows residents to assess potential fire hazards in their homes and provides personalised fire safety plans.

The initiative is part of a UK-wide partnership with the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) and Safelincs.

Households identified as high risk will be offered in-person fire safety checks by NIFRS personnel.

The campaign is a collaborative effort with the Republic of Ireland’s National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management aimed at preventing home fires and promoting fire safety awareness.

Fire and water safety urged as UK weather improves

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetySafety

Fire services warn of increased fire risks with improved UK weather

As reported by the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS), and London Fire Brigade (LFB), the improving UK weather has prompted warnings about fire and water safety.

With rising temperatures, there is an expected increase in outdoor fires and water rescue incidents.

The NFCC advises that small outdoor fires can lead to wildfires, often started by human activities such as using barbecues and campfires in open areas, and improper disposal of cigarettes and glass.

To reduce the risk, the NFCC recommends having campfires and barbecues only in designated areas, never leaving them unattended, and ensuring they are fully extinguished with water.

They also advise against setting off sky lanterns and stress the importance of disposing of smoking materials safely.

The NIFRS emphasises the importance of not starting open fires and acting responsibly by extinguishing cigarettes and taking home litter.

They urge the public to park responsibly to ensure access for emergency services.

Water safety concerns highlighted

London Fire Brigade has attended over 30 water-related incidents this year and is concerned that these numbers may rise with the warmer weather.

Teenage boys are particularly at risk of accidental drowning, especially with the end of the exam season.

During Drowning Prevention Week, the Brigade encouraged local authorities to assess the safety of waterways and ensure life-saving equipment is available.

Assistant Commissioner for Prevention & Protection at LFB, Craig Carter, stated: “Despite the warm weather, London’s waterways are still cold enough to cause cold water shock, affecting a person’s ability to swim and increasing the risk of drowning.”

He advises against jumping into water to cool off and promotes the “float to live” technique to survive cold water shock.

The NFCC and NIFRS both provide similar water safety advice, urging people to avoid drinking alcohol before swimming, to actively supervise children near water, and to call 999 if someone is in trouble.

They also advise telling the person to float on their back and throwing them something that floats.

Outdoor safety tips

The NFCC’s Wildfire Aware campaign aims to reduce wildfire risks by educating the public on fire safety.

They advise keeping barbecues and fire pits away from flammable materials and ensuring ashes are cold before disposal.

They also recommend fitting smoke alarms and fire extinguishers on boats, caravans, and mobile homes.

The NIFRS advises the public to follow their summer safety tips, which include never lighting a candle or any flame inside or near a tent, cooking outside and away from the tent, and storing flammable liquids or gas cylinders safely.

They also stress the importance of having a fire escape plan and fitting smoke alarms in caravans and mobile homes.

London Fire Brigade is working closely with councils to manage open spaces and reduce the risk of wildfires.

They caution against using disposable barbecues in parks and on balconies due to the fire risk and urge proper disposal of smoking materials and rubbish to prevent fires.

NIFRS marks graduation of 36 new wholetime firefighters

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Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service celebrates final graduation at current facility

Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) recently marked the graduation of 36 new Wholetime (Full-Time) Firefighters at its Learning & Development Centre (LDC), Boucher.

This event also signifies the final graduation ceremony before the service transitions to its new state-of-the-art training facility in Cookstown.

New training facility in Cookstown to revolutionise firefighter training

The Cookstown Learning & Development College, a Northern Ireland Executive flagship project, is set to be the largest capital build ever undertaken by NIFRS.

It promises to transform the training and development of NIFRS personnel with cutting-edge facilities.

The newly graduated firefighters will continue their training at this innovative college when it opens later in the year.

Their intensive training programme has equipped them with specialist knowledge and practical skills, including tactical firefighting, using breathing apparatus, and responding to various emergencies.

Comments from NIFRS leadership

Aidan Jennings, Chief Fire & Rescue Officer at NIFRS, expressed his pride in the graduates and the forthcoming college: “This is a hugely momentous day for our 36 trainees as they graduate as Wholetime Firefighters and for NIFRS hosting its final graduation ceremony at its Learning & Development Centre, Boucher.

“We are extremely proud to lead the development of our new Learning & Development College at Cookstown. The College will revolutionise how NIFRS trains and develops its people.”

Peter May, Permanent Secretary at the Department of Health, and Jay Colville, Chairperson of NIFRS, also extended their congratulations to the graduates.

They underscored the importance of the new training facility in Cookstown in transforming the delivery of training for future firefighters with its advanced equipment and facilities.

IFSJ comment

The graduation of 36 new Wholetime Firefighters from the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service marks a pivotal moment for the service as it transitions to a new era of firefighter training and development.

The establishment of the new Learning & Development College in Cookstown is a testament to the commitment of NIFRS to enhance the skills and safety of its personnel and, by extension, the community they serve.

This initiative not only supports the professional growth of new firefighters but also reflects an investment in the future of fire and rescue services in Northern Ireland.

As these graduates embark on their careers, they carry with them the values of dedication, safety, and community service that are essential to the mission of NIFRS.

NIFRS appoints new chief and introduces policy to combat false alarms

by Featured NewsPeople

The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) has recently announced significant developments that will shape the future of fire safety and emergency response in the region.

These developments include the appointment of a new Chief Fire & Rescue Officer and the introduction of a policy aimed at reducing the number of false alarms, a persistent challenge for the service.

Appointment of new Chief Fire & Rescue Officer

Aidan Jennings has been appointed as the new Chief Fire & Rescue Officer for NIFRS, bringing over 28 years of experience within the Fire & Rescue Service to the role.

Previously serving as Assistant Chief Fire & Rescue Officer and Director of Operational Delivery, Mr.

Jennings will assume his new position on 1 December 2023.

Jennings expressed his pride and delight in leading NIFRS, emphasizing the organization’s exceptional staff and their commitment to public safety.

He also underlined his dedication to supporting the workforce and delivering the best possible service to the people of Northern Ireland.

Jay Colville, Chairperson of the NIFRS Board, praised Mr.

Jennings for his substantial strategic and operational experience and his commitment to public safety.

Additionally, Peter May, Permanent Secretary at the Department of Health, NIFRS’s sponsoring Department, welcomed Mr.

Jennings’ appointment, noting his extensive experience and leadership qualities as crucial for the role​​.

NIFRS’s new policy to reduce false alarms

In response to a substantial increase in false alarms, NIFRS has introduced a new policy, set to be implemented on 1 February 2024.

This policy aims to reduce unnecessary call-outs that have reached an unsustainable level.

From 2017 to 2022, 98.7% of automatic fire alarms in Northern Ireland were false alarms.

The policy outlines specific responsibilities for fire alarm monitoring organizations, installers, maintainers, and users of fire alarm systems.

It will notably affect commercial premises, requiring duty holders in certain premises to verify a fire before contacting emergency services.

This measure is intended to ensure that firefighters are available for actual emergencies, optimize public funds usage, and reduce business disruption costs.

NIFRS Group Commander Geoff Somerville emphasized the importance of this policy in ensuring efficient and responsible public fund usage while maintaining high service levels.

He encouraged property managers and fire alarm monitoring organizations to investigate alarms before contacting NIFRS and reassured that NIFRS would mobilize immediately if there were reports or signs of a fire​​.

IFSJ Comment

The recent developments at NIFRS, including the appointment of Aidan Jennings as the new Chief Fire & Rescue Officer and the introduction of a policy to combat false alarms, represent significant strides in enhancing fire safety and emergency response in Northern Ireland.

 Jennings’ extensive experience and leadership skills are expected to drive the organization’s strategic journey forward, focusing on public safety and efficient service delivery.

The new false alarm policy is a thoughtful response to the challenge of rising false alarms, aiming to streamline NIFRS’s operations and ensure that resources are effectively utilized for genuine emergencies.

These steps reflect NIFRS’s commitment to adaptability and innovation in meeting the evolving needs of public safety and emergency services.

NIFRS accepts recommendations from an independent inspection

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The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) acknowledges direction for future improvement

The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) has responded positively to recommendations made in an independent inspection.

Released today, 7 September, by the Department of Health (DOH), the inspection was carried out by His Majesty’s Fire Service Inspectorate (Scotland).

It aimed to provide an unbiased look into the significant challenges and issues NIFRS has been grappling with.

Inspection offers comprehensive insights into challenges and areas for advancement for NIFRS

The inspection particularly took note of the financial constraints the organisation has faced over the years.

The report mentions: “NIFRS provides an invaluable service to the community it protects” and commends the dedication and hard work of its employees.

The recommendations are intended to guide NIFRS in its enhancement efforts over the upcoming five years.

Yet, the report also conveys that: “the level of improvement required will take time, financial investment and significant political support if they are to be successful.”

Andy Hearn, the Interim Chief Fire & Rescue Officer at NIFRS, expressed his thoughts: “I welcome and fully support the recommendations of the Inspection in supporting change and continuous improvement in NIFRS.

“As the report outlines, with the right strategic direction, political support, and financial commitment, the challenges are in no way insurmountable.”

Recommendations set to shape the organisation’s actions over the next five years

In addition, the report emphasised the universal nature of some of these issues, as similar concerns have been identified in fire sector reports elsewhere.

Drawing from these, NIFRS intends to develop a 5-year action plan with a refreshed focus.

Extending his gratitude, Mr Hearn added: “I would like to thank our employees for their honesty and candour throughout the Inspection.

“Thanks also to the DOH for the investment in this Inspection, which is also an investment in public and Firefighter safety.

“Thank you to the Inspection Team, led by Chief Inspector Robert Scott, and our Board for their support.”

Jay Colville, Chairperson of the NIFRS Board, also commented: “On behalf of the NIFRS Board I welcome the recommendations within the report.

“The recommendations, coupled with other recommendations from various reports within the wider UK fire sector, will provide the blueprint for the future.”

For a deeper insight into the findings, the full report is available on the NIFRS publications page.

IFSJ Comment

The unveiling of recommendations for the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service offers a pivotal moment in the organisation’s journey.

The report not only spotlights the immediate issues NIFRS faces but also provides a roadmap for its future endeavours.

It is noteworthy that these recommendations are grounded in real-world concerns, ensuring that the fire and rescue service remains attuned to the evolving needs of Northern Ireland’s communities.

With this framework, there’s hope for a more efficient, effective, and responsive service that continues to uphold public safety at its core.