Fire Brigades Union issues guidance for firefighters during Oxford protests

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has advised its members not to participate in law enforcement activities during an ongoing protest in central Oxford.

Firefighters were reported to have attended an automatic fire alarm incident earlier today at the Radcliffe Camera library.

This guidance follows similar instances in Leicestershire, where police reportedly requested support from fire and rescue services to assist in the removal of protestors.

Firefighting is a humanitarian profession, says FBU

The FBU reiterated that the primary role of firefighters is humanitarian and separate from law enforcement duties.

Steve Wright, general secretary of the Fire Brigades Union, emphasised this position, stating: “Firefighting is a humanitarian profession, completely independent of law enforcement.

“The role of a firefighter is to protect the community and save lives, and does not include assisting the police response to protests or the removal of protestors.”

The union clarified that firefighters should focus solely on their core responsibilities, including responding to emergencies and saving lives.

FBU highlights support for the right to protest

The FBU expressed its ongoing support for the right to protest, citing its long-standing position on issues of peace and justice.

Steve Wright added: “The Fire Brigades Union advises all firefighters to refuse to participate in law enforcement activities alongside the police.

“We have a long history of supporting the right to protest, as well as peace and justice for Palestine.”

The union’s stance reinforces its independence from law enforcement while maintaining its commitment to humanitarian principles.

Background on police requests for fire service assistance

Previous incidents in Leicestershire highlighted similar situations where fire and rescue services were asked to assist police during demonstrations.

The FBU’s guidance aims to ensure that firefighters are not drawn into roles that could conflict with their professional remit.

Fire Brigades Union issues guidance for firefighters during Oxford protests: Summary

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has advised firefighters not to assist police in removing protestors during a demonstration in central Oxford.

Earlier today, firefighters responded to an automatic fire alarm at the Radcliffe Camera library.

The FBU, citing its humanitarian focus, has clarified that firefighters should not engage in law enforcement activities, including the removal of protestors.

General secretary Steve Wright stated that the union supports the right to protest and highlighted its history of advocating for peace and justice.

The guidance follows similar requests made in Leicestershire, where police sought fire service assistance during protests.