South Wales Fire and Rescue Service inspection report highlights concerns about domestic dwelling fire responses

As reported by the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, an inspection led by Chief Fire and Rescue Advisor and Inspector for Wales, Dan Stephens QFSM, has identified concerns regarding the operational effectiveness of the Service when responding to domestic dwelling fire incidents.

The inspection, carried out in July and August 2024, reviewed 252 incidents that occurred between 1 April 2021 and 31 March 2023.

The investigation examined operational procedures, breathing apparatus usage, and incident command tactics.

It followed on from a previous thematic review and the Morris Review, aiming to complement those earlier assessments.

The report highlights that certain tactics employed have put firefighters at unnecessary risk and, in some cases, resulted in avoidable damage to property.

National guidelines under scrutiny

The criticism outlined in the report primarily focuses on tactics and procedures dictated by national operational guidelines set by the National Fire Chief Council (NFCC), rather than the actions of South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) personnel.

The Commissioners welcomed the clarification from the Welsh Government, which stated that there was no criticism of frontline firefighters.

The issues stem from wider concerns about training, equipment, and procedures at the national level.

Commitment to implementing recommendations

The Commissioners have expressed their commitment to implementing most of the report’s recommendations.

This includes making changes to ensure SWFRS leads the way in operational firefighting practices.

However, some recommendations, such as potential changes to the shift system, require more detailed analysis.

The Commissioners have made clear that any immediate changes would be premature without further risk assessment.

Steps taken to address the findings

Work has already begun to address the findings of the inspection.

A dedicated officer has been appointed to focus solely on reviewing and implementing the recommended improvements.

The Commissioners emphasised their commitment to working with the Welsh Government and the Chief Fire and Rescue Advisor to ensure that South Wales Fire and Rescue Service continues to provide a high level of service to the community.

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service inspection report highlights need for national operational adjustments: Summary

A recent inspection of South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS), conducted by Chief Fire and Rescue Advisor and Inspector for Wales, Dan Stephens QFSM, has raised concerns over operational tactics used in responding to domestic fires.

The report, which reviewed incidents from April 2021 to March 2023, highlighted that these tactics have sometimes put firefighters at unnecessary risk and caused avoidable property damage.

However, the issues raised relate to national guidelines rather than the performance of frontline SWFRS firefighters.

The Commissioners have committed to implementing most of the report’s recommendations but will take a cautious approach to changes such as shift systems.

Work to address the findings is already underway.