This in from the council, in their own words. Ed
The Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service has responded to a request from the government to support the national flood relief effort.
Fire services across the country are being asked to provide resources to assist areas of the country worst affected by flooding where key infrastructure and homes are at risk of flooding.
The Island has deployed its High Volume Pump, a national resource which can be called on to assist at times of national emergency, to support colleagues in Winchester, an area particularly badly affected by the recent weather.
Won’t affect Island coverage
Steve Apter, the Island’s chief fire officer, said:
“I would like to reassure residents that the deployment of the High Volume Pump to support the national flood response doesn’t affect our ability to respond to incidents on the Island as we still have a range of pumping equipment on the Island.
“In times of national emergency it is right that we provide support to areas which are experiencing significant problems where there is a high risk to life and infrastructure. I am proud to have been able to offer support to colleagues in Winchester who are experiencing very difficult conditions.”
Provided help in 2007
This is not the first time the Island’s resources have been deployed to support other areas, in 2007 Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue crews assisted with major flooding in Gloucestershire and South Yorkshire.
Councillor Phil Jordan, Isle of Wight Council Cabinet member for public protection, said:
“I am very pleased that our Fire and Rescue Service is able to offer assistance to our colleagues and partners on the mainland. This very much demonstrates the ability and resilience of our fire service on the Island and is a timely reminder of the value of our fire service and its capabilities.
“I am please we have been able to assist those suffering from very serious flooding in other parts of the country and know that our valued appliance and assistance will offer very practical help and comfort to many people. The flooding we have witnessed over recent days and weeks is far too serious to be confined by any boundaries.”
Chief Officer John Bonney of Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service said:
“Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service is very grateful for the support of the High Volume Pump from the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service to assist with protecting the historic city of Winchester from flooding. It’s at times like these where the fire service’s commitment to partnership working really comes into its own.”
The Island’s Fire and Rescue Service is one of 22 fire authorities to make pumping equipment available in response to the government’s request. The pump has been deployed for four days, although this may be extended depending on conditions.
Image: © Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service
