Decision details

The Surrey Fire and Rescue item was postponed until after the Cabinet Member’s Update item as the meeting had progressed more quickly than expected.

The report outlined the major strands of activity undertaken within the Guildford area by the Surrey Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) teams based at Guildford and Gomshall Fire Stations during 2016 – 17.  It contained information on the various activities undertaken by the Borough team to reduce the risk from fire, water and road traffic incidents to the residents of Guildford Borough, including direct contact, public education programmes and campaigns. Relevant County wide activity was also included.  Appendix 1 to the report provided specific Key Performance Indicators for SFRS.

Members asked how they could assist the Surrey Fire and Rescue Service the Group Commander for North West Surrey responded that the Committee could help by supporting the service’s public safety plan and supporting Senior Fire Officers to meet their budgetary requirements sooner rather than later.

Members expressed thanks to the Fire and Rescue Service for all their hard work.  Members also asked how the service compares with others across the country. The Group Commander informed the Committee that in the last 10 years there has been a significant reduction in fires across the United Kingdom and in Surrey the service has outstanding equipment and training and are the fittest in the country.  Members requested that if any hotspots came up in Surrey to make them aware.

Guildford Local Committee agreed to:

Recognise the achievements of SFRS teams both within Guildford and across the County this year, support their commitment in further identifying and improving initiatives to reduce risk and make the Borough of  Guildford safer especially for those more vulnerable within the community.

Reasons:

SFRS dedicates a great deal of time in supporting the safety of members of Guildford’s Communities.  It is important to appreciate that the requirement for and themes of initiatives will change to meet identified needs within the community, for which continued support throughout the year and into the future is essential to allow maximum effect.