The ‘hottest’ publication of the year landed last week. This is, of course, Hampshire and Isle of Wight fire and rescue services Safety Plan which outlines the priorities that they will be focusing on during the next five years.
This integrated risk management document was shaped by the views of the public after an extensive eight-week consultation process.
Role of the modern firefighter is evolving
HFRS and IWFRS Chief Fire Officer Neil Odin said:
“The role of the modern firefighter is evolving as we look for new and innovative ways to protect and serve the public.
“Both services have been rated as good in terms of effectiveness and efficiency by a new Government inspectorate and we are constantly looking for ways to improve.
“This plan is the blueprint for how we will continue to make life safer for our communities and provide a service our people are proud to deliver.”
How to best serve the population
This plan focuses on risks in the county, people and how to best serve the needs of the individual alongside broader issues such as population growth and climate change.
It considers levels of vulnerability, partnership working, local intelligence, industry-leading research and the commitment to continue to learn and look for ways to improve.
Stewart: Strong Partnership
Isle of Wight council leader, Dave Stewart, said:
“I am pleased that despite the current Coronavirus crisis we have been able to move the safety plan forward.
“The partnership between Hampshire and the Isle of Wight is really strong.
“As we move towards the Combined Fire Authority we will be able to look back at this period as the time we built our foundation for the future.”
This Safety Plan covers HFRS and IWFRS as the two services are preparing to come together under a Combined Fire Authority in April 2021.
Article edit
5.30pm 8th Apr 2020 – Comment from Dave Stewart added
News shared by Mike on behalf of Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue. Ed
Image: © Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue
