Friday 8 January
12.00hrs
Avon Fire & Rescue Service’s Chief Fire Officer/Chief
Executive has praised the dedication of his staff during the
current freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall.
Despite much of the Avon area being covered in a heavy blanket
of snow the service has maintained full operational staffing levels
to ensure local communities are safe.
A number of operational firefighters proved their commitment to
AF&RS including two members of Red Watch at Patchway Fire
Station. Firefighter Darren Smith walked ten miles from his home,
leaving at 5am and Firefighter Paul Henbest left his home in Devon
at 4am to ensure he arrived at work on time.
Two firefighters from Bath Fire Station were also committed to
getting to work, one arriving the night before and sleeping at the
station and the other leaving his home in Shropshire at 4.30am.
A firefighter, who lives in Keynsham but is based at Bedminster
Fire Station, was unable to get his car out of the drive, so opted
for his bike instead, cycling six miles to get to work.
Chief Fire Officer/Chief Executive Kevin Pearson said: “These
are just some of the amazing stories we have been hearing from our
staff, who were committed to getting to work, despite the
conditions.
“I am really proud of all our staff, who regardless of the
weather either arrived at their normal workplace, relocated to the
nearest AF&RS premises, or worked from home. It shows they are
truly dedicated to making sure that the communities we serve are
protected.
“Throughout the heavy snow and freezing temperatures Avon Fire
& Rescue Service has been fully staffed, with all appliances
available, including at our retained stations, many of which are in
rural areas where conditions are particularly difficult.”
During the bad weather snow chains are available for all fire
appliances, four-wheel drive vehicles are being used by AF&RS
officers and a fallback location for the AF&RS Control room is
on standby to ensure all 999 calls can be taken in the event that
staff are unable to get to our Lansdown location.
Ends