Concern over firefighters in West Norfolk
A SHORTAGE of retained firefighters and lack of daytime fire cover is causing concern in parts of West Norfolk.
South West Norfolk MP Christopher Fraser recently raised the issue in the House of Commons, highlighting Downham Fire Station which is currently two firefighters short.
Across Norfolk as a whole, there are 520 retained firefighters, only ten short of the full establishment of 530. But a lack of firefighters available during the day is evident.
Mr Fraser was concerned that in all rural areas of Norfolk, the fire service relied wholly on retained crews.
"Provision of cover is proving a huge challenge, leaving certain rural areas insufficiently covered," he said.
With fewer rural businesses to recruit from and employers less inclined to release staff due to cost and inconvenience, Mr Fraser called for incentives for employers.
Norfolk County Council's cabinet member for fire and community safety, Councillor Richard Rockcliffe, said the shortage was also affecting Great Massingham Fire Station.
He stressed that a new reporting system was helping the overall situation by making it possible to monitor minute-by-minute when retained fire-fighters were available.
"Even if they are logged off, if there is a 'shout' they may become available quite quickly," said Cllr Rockcliffe, of Watlington.
He did not feel cover was being compromised because one station covered for another.
"It's not quite as bad as it perhaps seems but we have to be aware of the situation, be prepared for the future and not be complacent. We have got to be more supportive, particularly towards employers.
Generally speaking, they are very good and we are really appreciative," he went on.
On recruitment, he said it was important to let people within range of fire stations know what being a retained firefighter was all about and encourage more to take it on.
The hours might also appeal to mothers of school-age children who were at home during the day.
"We welcome women firefighters," he said.
He added that the situation in Norfolk was much better than in many parts of the country. "We have to pay tribute to our retained firefighters. We have a much better retention rate than many other areas."
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Weather for King's Lynn
Sunday 27 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 10 C to 24 C
Wind Speed: 15 mph
Wind direction: East
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Sunny
Temperature: 10 C to 23 C
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