FIRE chiefs are putting on extra specialist appliances over the next few weeks to reduce the number of bonfire related calls this year.
Crews will be using Targeted Response Vehicles (TRVs), which are midi fire engines predominantly used to tackle small incidents such as wheelie bin and rubbish fires. These vehicles will patrol areas which show up as having a high proportion of anti social behaviour occurring around this time of year.
TRVs carry three firefighters and will be drafted in as extra resources to the main appliances and crews already based at stations in Halton, Warrington, Ellesmere Port and Winsford and will to help with the increase of calls The Service receives between now and November 5.
John Redmond, head of unitary performance and projects for Cheshire Fire & Rescue Service, said: “By using the TRVs we leave the larger appliances free to tackle incidents which could be of a more serious nature or where people’s lives are at risk. In addition to this, fire crews can continue to carry out their community engagement work without risk of unnecessary disruption.
“Responding to deliberate fires is a huge drain on our resources as firefighters are continually being called out to deal with deliberate fires. These types of incidents continue to have a major impact on the local economy but also put the risks of local residents and our firefighters at risk.”
To reduce the risk of incidents occurring, residents are asked to follow this advice:-
• Where possible, do not put wheelie bins out for emptying until the refuse collectors are due
• Don’t overfill your wheelie bin/refuse bag and don’t allow rubbish to accumulate against buildings
• If possible, store wheelie bins/refuse containers in a secure area.
• Shops, schools and local amenities should secure refuse inside the building until the day the refuse collection is to take place
• Reports of all instances of damage should be reported to the local Police or to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where all calls are treated in the strictest confidence
