South Wales fire service expands Safe Haven access
South Wales Fire and Rescue Service has confirmed that all 47 of its fire stations now offer a Safe Haven facility to members of the public facing distress or danger.
The Safe Haven initiative, introduced in August 2022, allows anyone experiencing risk to press a button outside the station to receive support from staff or connect directly to emergency services.
The service said the system is intended to help people such as those fleeing domestic violence or feeling unsafe in public spaces.
According to South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, if fire station staff are present, the alert will notify them. If not, the system connects directly to a 999 operator.
Chief Fire Officer Fin Monahan said the buttons continue to be used and have proven effective in delivering help to vulnerable individuals.
Emergency system supports domestic abuse response
The Safe Haven buttons are part of a wider response to safety concerns in the UK, particularly violence against women and girls.
South Wales Fire and Rescue Service referenced national statistics, noting that one in four women in England and Wales will experience domestic abuse during their lifetime.
According to the service, UK police receive a domestic abuse-related call every 30 seconds.
The fire service described the Safe Haven buttons as a way to make immediate help more accessible in moments of threat.
Chief Fire Officer Fin Monahan said: “Ultimately, I wish the Safe Haven buttons weren’t needed, but they are a vital lifeline for those at risk. They have proven to be an effective way for people to seek help and find safety—whether fleeing domestic violence or feeling unsafe on the streets.”
Fire stations provide assistance beyond emergency response
Although fire and rescue services traditionally focus on fire prevention and emergency incidents, the Safe Haven scheme reflects a broader public protection role.
Chief Fire Officer Fin Monahan said: “While our primary role as a Service is to respond to fires and rescue incidents, I want people to know that we are here to protect them—whatever the threat may be, including violence against women and girls.”
He said staff at each station are able to assist those in need of support, even outside of typical fire service duties.
He added: “I am really pleased that the Safe Haven buttons continue to be used by the public during times of distress.”
Fire service calls for public awareness of Safe Haven access
The fire service is encouraging greater awareness of the Safe Haven buttons among members of the public who may be in danger.
Chief Fire Officer Fin Monahan said: “If you’re in danger and need immediate help, your nearest fire station can offer support—but always call 999 first in an emergency.”
He also expressed a personal concern about public safety and awareness: “As a father, it’s deeply concerning that my daughters still do not feel safe walking alone through a town or city in the evening.”
South Wales Fire and Rescue Service also advised people affected by domestic violence to visit the Refuge website for further support.
Safe Haven buttons offer 24/7 access to help
The Safe Haven feature is accessible 24 hours a day through the external button fitted at every South Wales fire station.
If pressed, and no staff are available, the button links the caller to emergency services through a direct 999 connection.
The fire service stated that this system ensures help can be reached even when station personnel are not on site.
By providing a clearly marked and monitored public access point, the stations contribute to wider community safety infrastructure.
The fire service described the measure as a permanent part of its public support offering.
Safe Haven buttons at South Wales fire stations provide emergency support: Summary
All 47 fire stations across South Wales are equipped with Safe Haven buttons.
The initiative was introduced by South Wales Fire and Rescue Service in August 2022.
Each button connects the caller to on-duty staff or a 999 operator.
The system is designed to assist people fleeing danger or in distress.
The fire service said the scheme especially supports those at risk of domestic violence.
Chief Fire Officer Fin Monahan confirmed the buttons have been used by the public.
UK police receive a domestic abuse-related call every 30 seconds.
One in four women in England and Wales will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime.
Monahan said the fire service aims to offer protection beyond emergency incidents.
The buttons are available at all hours, whether staff are present or not.
South Wales Fire and Rescue Service encouraged public awareness of the system.
Further support for domestic violence is available through the Refuge website.