Firefighters in Auckland Areas 3, 4 and 5 have been asked to collect names and addresses of all present at every fire and to report the details back to FireCom to be forwarded to rural personnel.

The NZPFU was not advised of this requirement and has not been provided with any information as to the purpose of the collection of this personal information.

We have sought a full explanation from FENZ.

We advise members that this is not in your interest to collect these personnel details. We do not know how that information is to be used. It could also be in breach of the Privacy Act.

Once a fire is extinguished firefighters discuss fire safety measures and prevention with those present. FENZ has other processes to deal with fire investigations, re-occurring issues or where fire safety enforcement might be considered. This is not the role of the responding firefighter.

We have been informed that requests for personal information have been met with suspicion and concern by those at the scene.

It is not part of your duties and could seriously harm the reputation of firefighters as protectors of the community.

In unity,
Wattie Watson
National Secretary