Officers are strongly encouraged to request additional resources to respond to reports of a structure fire. This will ensure that adequate resources are quickly available on the fire-ground for a safe and efficient fire attack.

The health and safety of firefighters and the public are paramount, and this can help to be assured by the timely arrival of an adequate number of personnel on fire-ground.

Some time has passed since changes in BA policy and practice were implemented. Our experience is showing that greater firefighter numbers are required at structure fires in order for operational crews to strictly adhere to these procedures.

Having the appropriate numbers of personnel immediately available will also ensure that B.A procedures (in particular the requirement to ensure that there are two BA wearers available as an emergency team if the Incident Controller chooses to deploy a BA team) can be safely enforced, adequate fire attacks made with an appropriate delivery, search and rescue carried out, water supplies established, sectorisation and scene management begun.

Having the appropriate number of personnel on the fire ground allows the first in crews to be relieved in a timely manner and to return to their station for a hot shower and a change of gear, thereby further enhancing the safety and wellbeing of all of our members.

Once the Officer in Charge is satisfied that the resources on the fire-ground are no longer needed then they can be released from the incident.

If anyone has any queries on the above points, please contact one of your Local Committee Members at any time.