Fire engines removed from Dorset and Wiltshire stations without notice

Firefighters in Dorset and Wiltshire recently raised concerns after finding fire engines missing when they reported for duty in September.

Fire appliances were removed from stations in Sturminster Newton, Wareham, Corsham, and Marlborough on September 19th and throughout that week.

As reported by the Fire Brigades Union, the Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service had previously announced plans to cut fire engines and reduce fire cover across the region.

However, firefighters were not informed of the removal of these fire appliances on the specified dates.

According to the Fire Brigades Union, these cuts have raised concerns about the safety of both firefighters and the communities they serve.

The Union condemned the reduction in resources, stating that it places the public and firefighters at increased risk.

Fire Brigades Union voices concerns over consultation process

During an October 1st Fire Authority meeting, representatives from the Fire Brigades Union criticised the lack of consultation over the fire engine removals.

They argued that the cuts were made without properly engaging with firefighters or the local community.

The Union emphasised the importance of communication between the Fire Authority, firefighters, and the public regarding decisions that directly impact safety.

Matt Wrack, general secretary of the Fire Brigades Union, stated: “Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service is clearly trying to get away with cuts by stealth.

“Axing fire engines and downgrading firefighter cover will hollow out any last resilience.

“The public, and the workforce, deserve a say in their service.”

Incident highlights risks of reduced fire cover

A week after the fire engines were removed, a fire broke out in a Corsham flat.

While enough firefighters for two crews responded, only one fire engine was available due to the recent cuts.

This forced the second engine to travel from Chippenham, causing delays.

Firefighters successfully tackled the fire and rescued an occupant, but the Union warned that such delays could lead to more severe outcomes in the future.

The Fire Brigades Union highlighted the risks of downgrading fire stations like Chippenham, which may soon lose guaranteed night-time cover.

They stressed that the recent incident only avoided disaster by “luck,” underscoring the potential dangers of the reduced fire service capacity.

Val Hampshire, Executive Council member for the South West, said: “As we saw last week, firefighters are dangerously thin on the ground, with disaster only avoided by luck.

“Plans to slash fire cover will mean that there may be no back-up next time.”

Calls for restoration of fire engines and halt to cuts

The Fire Brigades Union is calling for the immediate return of the fire engines that were removed and for Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service to abandon plans for further downgrades.

The Union is urging the Fire Authority to prioritise public and firefighter safety by reconsidering the cuts and ensuring adequate fire cover across the region.

The Fire Brigades Union continues to advocate for better communication and consultation with the workforce and the public, aiming to prevent future tragedies and ensure that sufficient fire service resources are maintained.

Fire Brigades Union warns of safety risks as Dorset and Wiltshire fire engines removed: Summary

Firefighters in Dorset and Wiltshire discovered missing fire engines when they reported for duty in September.

The removals were part of cuts announced by the Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, which the Fire Brigades Union claims jeopardise safety.

A fire in Corsham a week after the cuts highlighted the risks, as only one crew could respond due to the missing fire engine, delaying the emergency response.

The Fire Brigades Union criticised the lack of consultation and is calling for the return of the fire engines and a halt to further cuts.