NFCC Prevention Awards: FRSs recognised for outstanding prevention efforts

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) held its Celebrating Prevention Awards 2024 last week, honouring Fire and Rescue Services (FRSs) from across the UK for their work in road, home, and water safety, as well as safeguarding, children and young people initiatives, and partnerships.

Over 70 nominations showcased the exceptional efforts of FRS Prevention teams, with each entry reflecting innovative practices in improving public safety.

According to the NFCC, the judging process was challenging due to the high quality of submissions.

This year marked the introduction of The Donna Crossman Children & Young People Award.

Created in memory of Donna Crossman, the award acknowledges individuals who have had a profound impact on young lives, continuing her legacy within the sector.

Outstanding contribution award presented to Dawn Whittaker

Chief Fire Officer Dawn Whittaker of East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service received the Outstanding Contribution Award for her leadership in water safety initiatives.

Whittaker, who is retiring this December, has served as the National Water Safety Lead and played a significant role in advancing prevention efforts nationwide.

Her contributions to water safety have been recognised as instrumental in shaping current strategies.

NFCC stated that Whittaker’s retirement marks the end of a distinguished career dedicated to public safety and service improvement.

2024 winners highlight diverse prevention achievements

The awards honoured winners across eight categories:

• Road Safety Award: Annabelle Priest, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service.
• Home Safety Award: Humberside Prevention Team, Humberside Fire and Rescue Service.
• Water Safety Award: Prevention Department, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service.
• Safeguarding Award: Lisa Bryan, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service.
• Children and Young People Award: The All-Wales Children and Young People Group, The Three Welsh Fire and Rescue Services.
• Donna Crossman Children & Young People Award: Lester James, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service.
• Partnership Working Award: Community Wellbeing Officer Project Team, East Region FRSs and East of England Ambulance Service.
• Outstanding Contribution Award: Dawn Whittaker, CFO East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service.

Each award highlights excellence in specific areas of prevention, reflecting the FRSs’ dedication to enhancing community safety.

Donna Crossman Award honours lasting legacy

The Donna Crossman Children & Young People Award was a highlight of the event.

It recognises individuals and groups who make a difference in the lives of young people through innovative and impactful safety initiatives.

This year’s recipient, Lester James of Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, was commended for his dedication and commitment to youth engagement.

The award serves to continue Donna Crossman’s legacy of empowering young people and improving their safety and wellbeing.

NFCC Prevention Awards 2024: Summary

The NFCC’s Celebrating Prevention Awards 2024 highlighted the exceptional contributions of UK Fire and Rescue Services to public safety.

With over 70 nominations received, winners were recognised for achievements in road, home, and water safety, safeguarding, and youth initiatives.

Key moments included the presentation of the Outstanding Contribution Award to Dawn Whittaker and the introduction of The Donna Crossman Children & Young People Award.

These awards reflect the ongoing efforts to enhance community safety and honour outstanding individuals and teams within the sector.