Real life drama on EastEnders set
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
March 2015
email: protect@hertfordshire.gov.uk edition 36
Real life drama on EastEnders set
On 17 February at 23.02 Due to the heavy fire loading, main jet were in use.
timber construction and open plan
Red Watch Borehamwood
design of the row of prop terraced The staff at EastEnders were very
along with a crew from houses it was imperative crews grateful for the quick response
Potters Bar were called to made entry in to the building to enabling them to carry on filming
the BBC Studios in Elstree stop further fire spread. Four crew live scenes throughout the week to
to reports of a building fire. members with breathing apparatus celebrate their 30th anniversary.
worked hard using two hose reel
The Borehamwood crew were the jets to quickly extinguish the fire The fire is believed to be accidental
first in attendance and were and prevent any major damage to and caused from a stray firework
directed on to the Albert Square the set. that had been set off earlier in the
set. The crews were faced with a evening during rehearsals.
well developed fire, both on the At its height four sets of breathing
first floor and in the roof space, of apparatus, two hose reel jets, one WC Steve Bradford
the specially designed timber short extension ladder, one 13.5m Red Watch
framed end of terrace house. ladder, one roof ladder and one Borehamwood Fire Station
Director’s View
Spring is well on its way and by the time you read this Crews are called out to
month’s Protect Easter will nearly be upon us. As we which range from the
look forward I am pleased that there are no further everyday to the sobering and traumatic; nevertheless
strikes on the horizon. whatever the circumstances that our staff are working
to serve our community in I am proud to say that it is
As much as the work of the Community Protection done with the utmost professionalism and dedication.
Directorate is 24/7 it occurs to me that at this point in I do feel that we sometimes are over modest as a
the year there is a surge of energy into new or directorate about our work and maybe we should be
revitalised ventures, and I think that the articles in this communicating this to wider audiences.
month’s Protect prove this view.
As mentioned in February’s Protect the HEART Awards
This month we held our Long Service Awards at County are in November this year, which gives us the
Hall. It was an enjoyable family evening and I was opportunity to celebrate many of these successes and
pleased to present colleagues with their long service thank those who have been nominated.
medals whilst the High Sheriff presented certificates
to colleagues from the Directorate who had achieved There is a lot going on within the directorate at the
long service milestones. moment, not least the end of the financial year and the
budget challenges this brings for the new financial
My experience has been that from an outside year. Nonetheless I am happy to say that we have been
perspective CPD is often viewed as reactive, prudent in our budget management yet again and able
responding to adverse events; however it is great to to progress our planned projects for the coming year:
see in this issue the extent of the proactive and we are progressing with wholetime recruitment of
preventative community work we are heavily involved Firefighters; Group and Station Commanders’
in; both across the directorate, and with partners. To interviews are taking place and the implementation of
name but a few projects: working with the Thriving the new Gartan roster management system is going
Families Team designing practical activities for 9 – 17 live in April.
year olds, Rogue Traders investigations, visiting local
schools for fire safety, attending an infant school re Also a diary date of 1 April for managers across CP :
enacting the Great Fire of London!, and of course the The Management Development Seminar at Longfield
many safety awareness and charity fund raising
events. There is also the many incidents our Fire Have a good Easter.
Rogue Trader Team investigations
A number of doorstep crime incidents occurred in Hertfordshire in February involving cold calling for roofing
and driveways.
A vulnerable consumer was cold called by a roofing company and persuaded to have some work done to the
chimney. This resulted in over £2500 being paid in cash for poor, unnecessary work.
In another roofing incident a consumer has paid over £10,000 in cash and no work has been done.
These incidents are being investigated.
The team gave another training session on doorstep crime to new police recruits and took part in a multi-agency
operation, in Buntingford, in which vehicles were stopped and inspected by the agencies involved. The other
partner agencies involved were the police, HMRC, VOSA, and East Herts Council.
Chris Davies
Principal Officer – Citizen Team
You asked – we answered
Frequently asked questions from
staff at the Principal Officer visits
Q. What is the future of HFRS given the and fire marshal training across the Council. SLG is
willing to consider a range of activities, but with the
budget pressures now and in the future? priority on improving safety and protection for the
communities of Hertfordshire.
A. I am sure that staff will recognise the wider
national pressures and the impact of financial
constraint on all public services and Community
Q. What are the long term prospects for
Protection is definitely not immune to this, having seen
the Longfield site?
a reduction in our base budget by something in the
region of £3.5million over the last four years. It is clear
A. Property development and review is always a long
term strategic plan and as part of this we have been
that whichever party leads the next Government the
investigating the potential sale of the Longfield
rate of spending cuts in public sector is unlikely to
Training Centre site. This is part of a study into funding
fluctuate much. Nevertheless as a result of our
future improvements of training facilities for the Fire &
careful planning over the last few years CPD is in a
Rescue Service. This is still on the agenda, but with
relatively stable position for the next year or so. From
the intention that if the Longfield site is sold, we will be
16/17 onwards there is expected to be further pressure
looking to move our training facilities to a better site,
on the Directorate as a result of an overall gap in
with greater accessibility and longer term potential for
funding for the county council of approximately
improvements. At the moment there are no dates
£40million. This is a significant sum and at this time it
attached to this plan and no change in the short or
is unclear whether this will be proportionately applied
medium term. Staff will be informed as soon as there
across the council’s Directorates. We are considering
is anything substantial to report.
how the Engage process will work as we develop plans
for the future so everyone can have their say.
Q. IT/kits for Stations: What’s the plan for
Unfortunately the General Election brings uncertainty Sophtlogic and how will Gartan affect it?
around funding, and changes in the Comprehensive
Spending Review that will take place in the Autumn
means that no guarantees can yet be given. What is
A. There has been a considerable amount of work
completed around our IT provision to enhance
certain is that CPD will continue to seek further
capability and capacity to bring systems into line with
improvements in performance, effectiveness and
efficiency. CPD staff have risen to the challenge in the the rest of CPD. All sites already have increased
past and I have no doubt that they will do so again. internet band access and improvements/upgrades in
hardware in preparation for the move over to
Q. Are we looking at creating revenue HCC/Serco IT.
from services? Locally we are in the process of changing over from
Sophtlogic to Gartan Roster Management software, as
A. Work is continuing to develop the business case part of our drive to upgrade and modernise our
for the commercial arm of CPD and we see that as systems. Gartan training is being rolled out at present
being an unrealised opportunity for creating revenue to but from 27 March during the changeover period there
support and develop good work already going on in will be reduced accessibility to Sophtlogic for
CPD, and across the county council such as leadership nominated roles only, while the final stages of the
training for graduate management trainees, Princes move-over of data/information onto Gartan takes
Trust Volunteers, health and safety, manual handling place.
Noteworthy incidents
...........................................................................................................................................................................
Car collision Vehicle crash
into flats into house in
On 18 February Green Watch Hertford were called to
St Andrews Street in Hertford where a car had
Codicote
collided with a building
Blue Watch Welwyn Garden City were called to an
On arrival it was apparent that a VW Golf had left the incident where an elderly gentleman in Codicote
roadway, gone through/over a retaining iron fence managed to drive his vehicle through a garden fence
and collided into a rear garden before coming to a halt in a dining
with the wall of room of an extension of a property.
private flats.
He managed to get himself out of the vehicle but
The vehicle couldn’t remember what had actually
was driven by happened.
an 89 year old Crews from
lady who had WGC made the
mistakenly area safe and
used the then passed it
accelerator over to the
peddle police to
instead of manage.
the brake. Luckily no one
After assessment by the ambulance team the driver was injured.
and similarly aged passenger were assisted to safety
by the crew and then checked out at hospital. WC Mark
Massey
WC Ian Youngs Blue Watch
Green Watch Hertford Welwyn Garden
City
...............................................................................................................................................................................................
Building fire in Watford
On Saturday 7 March Red Watch Watford were called quickly implemented. In total 16 BA wearers were
to a building fire on Kings Street in Watford. On arrival used who worked extremely hard in difficult conditions
crews were faced with a fire on the first floor of a large to keep the major damage to a section of the property.
unoccupied mansion. Crews worked well into the early hours removing the
remaining roof tiles and checking for hot spots.
Two BA wearers were immediately committed and
seven pumps and the aerial ladder platform were CC Sam Bridges
requested as well. Stage two BA procedures were Red Watch Watford
Noteworthy incidents
Canal boat sinks
They were deployed to rescue a cat that was stranded
inside the sunken barge. Two operatives in dry suits and
PFDs launched the rescue sled and rescued the cat from
within the flooded barge. We were supported by the
The first responder crew from Blue Watch Welwyn crew from Hertford.
Garden City was deployed following the sinking of a WC Mark Massey
canal boat on the river in Hertford. Blue Watch Welwyn Garden City
...................................................................................................................................................................
Green Watch
Building fire in Royston
On the evening of 22 February returned to deal with the
attend RTC
an appliance from Royston was incident which turned out to be
On 2 February 2015 Green Watch Welwyn
called to a report of a fire within cooking that had been left
Garden City were called to an RTC with
a building at Cain Court in unattended. The property was
persons trapped, along with Welwyn
Royston. then ventilated by the fire crews.
Retained. The information had been given
This incident certainly
en route that the car was on its roof and
En route to the incident the fire highlighted the dangers of
on arrival WC Turner could see that an
crew were informed that there leaving cooking unattended.
elderly gentleman was trapped by his
was music coming from the
seatbelt and hanging upside down in the
affected flat and that there may On the following day we revisited
driver’s seat.
be a person inside. the block of flats to speak to the
neighbours. This was to give fire
Both crews worked well together to
Upon arrival the crew were met safety advice, check their smoke
stabilise the vehicle and assess the
with a strong smell of burning in detectors and also answer any
driver’s condition. As it turned out the
the entrance lobby of the questions they had.
casualty, Ian, an 82 year old, had come
property. The crew had to force
out of the collision remarkably well. With
entry to the property due to the CC Guy Phillips
all signs showing that he had good vital
lack of response from the Royston Fire Station
signs a plan was created to completely
occupier and
remove the side of the car to ensure a
smoke was seen
safe extraction for the gentleman.
coming from the
kitchen area. The
Once the ambulance was in attendance
occupant was
Ian was released from his car and lifted
found
onto a stretcher so he could be fully
unresponsive on
assessed and taken to hospital. As he left
the sofa so was
Ian sent his thanks to fire crews for their
taken to the lobby
help and efficiency.
area where first
aid was
David Undery
administered. The
Green Watch Welwyn Garden City
crew then
A10 vehicle fire after RTC
On 24 February Red Watch Fire Control took five one minute and included pumps from Hoddesdon,
harrowing calls within seconds of each other. Callers Cheshunt and Ware as well as the Rescue Support Unit
were reporting a massive road traffic collision, a big from St Albans. Within a few minutes information was
explosion, someone trapped, huge flames, people received confirming that a person was reported to be
running all over the road, screaming. Almost inside the lorry. It was also relayed to Control that due
immediately operators realised there was a serious to road closures that were quickly in place reverse lane
life risk situation. Understandably all of the callers running was established for oncoming resources.
were distressed, some almost hysterical at what they Crews made pumps six for water and manpower just
were witnessing before their eyes. Our experienced ten minutes after arriving and Cheshunt, Welwyn
operators managed to calm the callers and reassure Garden City, Hertford and two Harlow pumps were also
them enough to obtain vital information. Detailed mobilised. Fire Control’s responsibilities at this point
questioning was necessary to ascertain the exact include informing and mobilising relevant officers,
location as some callers were referring to local land updating other emergency services, ensuring all
marks, there were variations of whether the incident required resources had received incident and access
was on the A10 or on the slip road and other road details, confirming requirements for additional
names were mentioned, several referred to a bridge resources, attaching and working through action plans,
and others to a pub. Taking a few extra seconds to ongoing communications with crews at scene and
clarify this information can save minutes for crews updating relevant personnel. Of course they also
once mobilised to ensure they don’t join the remain available and ready to prioritise and take any
carriageway ahead of the incident. additional emergency calls that come in. As an incident
evolves so do the tasks and requirements of the
Our operators are trained to stay calm themselves, operators.
gain the callers concentration and trust and ask
specific questions to use in conjunction with our Unfortunately the outcome of this incident was that one
enhanced mapping system to accurately locate the male lost his life. It was a demanding job for both
incident. Control and crews alike but a good example of
From the information obtained Red Watch had everyone working together in order to respond as
determined this was a lorry fire following an RTC and quickly and effectively as possible.
that the driver was trapped inside the cab. Despite all
of the above the predetermined attendance for this Amanda Applegate
incident type was mobilised in just a few seconds over Red Watch Fire Control
Report from
A short time later, crews returned to the incident and
were given a clear brief by the command team on
scene as to how they would go about the extrication
and the requirements for fire investigation purposes of
preserving the scene as much as they could.
the scene at A protracted extrication phase then began with crews
working in extremely difficult and challenging
conditions to try and release the casualty with the
utmost dignity and respect throughout and after
the A10
approximately two and a half hours, the casualty was
finally released.
Throughout the extrication phase of this incident the
command and FI team in conjunction with police
accident colleagues continued to discuss all options available
for the extrication. This was a joint decision making
process in which all key decisions were discussed and
agreed before crews carried out specific tasks.
SC MacDonald attended the incident as FDO and Fortunately most crews may not be exposed to this
immediately made pumps six due to the severity of type of incident very often. All crews involved; from the
the fire, location of the incident and proximity of the initial attendance to the casualty extrication, all
nearest water supplies. A command structure was put performed with a high degree of professionalism,
in place and the incident continued in a controlled, dedication and sensitivity in what can be described as
coordinated and structured nature despite difficult some of the most difficult and stressful working
working conditions. conditions that they could be presented with.
After some time the fire was brought under control I would also like to highlight the exemplary work of
and it was confirmed that sadly the driver of the LGV individuals from White Watch Cheshunt and Hertford
had died. who carried out the unfortunate task of the extrication,
and the call handling from Fire Control personnel who
The incident was then scaled down and handed over to were subject to several repeat calls from distressed
the Police Collision Investigation Team to begin their members of public. Once again their professionalism
preliminary investigation into the cause of the incident. and dedication to their job is of the highest quality.
Crews from Cheshunt and Hertford were informed that
they would be required to assist with the casualty The cause of the RTC and subsequent fire investigation
extrication and were stood down to return to station to are currently on-going.
be called upon when the Police Collision Investigation
Team was happy to allow us access to begin the SC Justin Jones
difficult job of extricating the deceased. East Herts and Broxbourne
London’s burning at Fostering February at
Kingsway Infants School Cheshunt
Ff Mark Andrews dived straight in on his first shift at On the 26 February Green Watch at Cheshunt were
Garston Blue Watch, watching over the Great Fire of visited by the Children First Fostering Agency who
London set and collecting details for home fire safety were doing a campaign called Fostering February.
visits at Kingsway Infants School.
They were basically visiting various community places
to create awareness around what fostering is about in
90 children all in Year 1 and their parents watched and order to learn more about the facts and to be properly
sang London's Burning as their weeks of hard work informed on how to become a foster carer.
creating the set went up in smoke.
For more information about fostering in
WC Newman Hertfordshire visit www.hertsdirect.org/fostering
Fire safety for Hertford Winter safety for
school Cheshunt residents
Hertford Green Watch visited Duncombe School in On Monday 16 February Red Watch Cheshunt visited
Bengeo to deliver fire safety advice to the nursery and the bustling Pavilions shopping centre in Waltham
reception children. A short talk was followed by an Cross to promote winter safety and also raise
hour of spraying water with the hose reels and awareness of the danger of kitchen fires during
learning about the fire engine with 50 very excitable National Chip Week. Red Watch engaged with many
students (and teachers). members of the public utilising the fire safety hand-
outs at our disposal to highlight the risks associated
It was a very enjoyable and worthwhile community with fire safety in the winter and especially kitchen
event with great positive feedback. fires and cooking with oil. The information was well
WC Youngs received by the people of Waltham Cross.
Green Watch Hertford
SC Justin Jones
East Herts and Broxbourne District
Scams Team install blocker devices The Scams Team have been busy installing call blocker devices for victims of scams. One device was put into the home of an elderly lady in St Albans who is registered blind, lost money to a scam and was constantly receiving nuisance calls. In the first five days of installation, she had 46 incoming calls of which 28 were blocked and 20 of those blocked calls were from withheld or international numbers. She is delighted with the results as she can answer the phone again confident that it will actually be someone that she wants to talk to. We have also been lucky enough to receive a number of grants from Joint Action Groups around the county to buy a further 49 of these call blockers, so we can really make a difference and help our vulnerable residents. Sue Shanahan Senior Trading Standards Officer -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Fire safety talk for Year 8 Green Watch Cheshunt have been busy in local schools this month also delivering an assembly to Year 8 students at Turnford High School due to some recent incidents involving students and fire extinguishers. Mrs Goodes, Head of Lower School, said: “Watch Commander Wayne Gibbons and Green Watch from Cheshunt Station, came to talk to all Year 8 students on Tuesday about the importance of Fire Safety procedures. Wayne stressed the importance of using fire alarms when absolutely necessary as false alarm calls have serious consequences. Wayne explained that every time a fire alarm is set off in a school in the local area, Cheshunt Station Fire Officers are alerted and will rush to every call. This could mean that they have to abandon the safety work they are carrying out, for example, helping elderly residents by fitting in fire detectors and advice on how they would escape should the need arise. Wayne explained that setting off fire alarms unnecessarily has a knock-on effect on his work in practical terms and means that somebody’s safety could be at risk. “He also mentioned about the risks associated with playing with fire extinguishers and that fire extinguishers should never be played about with. They are meant to be used by professionals or by people who have been trained to use these properly. Fire gases from fire are toxic and do kill people. Fire extinguishers have a purpose; they are there for people’s protection and to be used in cases of emergency. “Year 8 students listened attentively and asked Wayne sensible questions about Fire Health and Safety precautions.”
Hunsdon Cub Trading
Scout Group
On Friday 13 February crews from Much Hadham
went to Hunsdon Village Hall to give the local Cub
Scout Group a fire safety talk to help them with their
Standards
Volunteers
personal safety badge.
Approximately 30 scouts and their leaders were given
a power point presentation on fire safety and sat
patiently until refreshment break and then
enthusiastically came back for more! On Saturday 21 February a one day volunteer
induction course was held at the Training Centre in
Lots of questions and interaction pleased the Scout Stevenage. There were six new volunteers of which
Leaders and hopefully all will now appreciate how four had expressed a preference to volunteer for
quickly fire can spread and how to keep themselves Trading Standards.
and their families safe.
The volunteers had a wide range of skills and prior
We also received some invitations to Home Fire Safety knowledge and had backgrounds as diverse as a
Visits. solicitor, publican and facilities management but
sharing a common aim of helping to make
Thanks to WC Peter Unthank for his assistance. Hertfordshire a safer place whilst learning new skills,
widening social circles and supporting the aims of
CC Paul Trigg CPD.
Much Hadham Fire Station
..................................................................................... Also in attendance were two new volunteers for the
service who are seen visiting Command and Control.
Work experience They join 10 new volunteers from the January course
and will now be observing and helping with
volunteering activities on districts.
at Stevenage Karl Wissgott
Volunteer Support Officer
Fire Station
At the beginning of March 13, students from Thomas
Alleyne School attended Stevenage Fire Station for a
week’s work experience. The week went extremely
well with fantastic help from the Stevenage crews, in
particular Ashley Edgar of Red Watch who devoted
much time and effort into helping out in the drill yard
and with the classroom segments of the course.
The students said they enjoyed every minute of the
week there has been such positive feedback from the
school and Youth Connexions that they hope to run the
course again next year.
After the pass out on Friday the students were
reluctant to leave as they had had such a great
experience at Stevenage. I'd like to thank the station
once again for being so helpful and welcoming.
WC Sue Hunt
Youth Engagement and Health and Wellbeing TeamHoax calls cost lives
Red Watch Fire Control has hosted two visits during March - a group of 12 work experience students and the
LIFE Course.
As well as explaining the work of Fire Control, the hosts of both visits wanted us to focus particularly on the key
messages around hoax calls. Both sets of students were keen to know how we can identify whether a call
received is actually a hoax. Most of them were also unaware that 999 calls were recorded and that these voice
recordings can be given to the police if necessary. We also ensured that they were aware that we can
permanently disconnect mobile phones when a hoax has been received.
Fire Control are always working towards identifying
trends with hoax calls and have been actively involved
in prosecutions in the past. The last case resulting in
the offender being given a 12 month Community Order
and associated court costs.
If you need Fire Control to reinforce any work you are
doing around hoax calls – just arrange a visit with any
watch.
WC Paula Stevenson
Red Watch Fire Control
Stevenage Changes programme version three
Between 17 and 19 February 2015 utilising search techniques I would like to say thanks to Chris
Stevenage Fire Station ran version Barnaby (from the training centre)
• RTC input
three of its Changes programme. who stepped in at short notice and
In conjunction with the local There were also positive safety delivered the first aid training.
Thriving Families Team 10 messages around community
children aged between 9 and 17 safety. Adam Laycock has been the driving
undertook three days of practical force behind the Thriving Families
activities designed to empower Day three also saw all the aspects initiative and he has put the
and build confidence and new of the course come together for programme together to maximise
skills. one huge display in front of the learning experience for the
parents, guardians and loved ones. kids. While Adam drives the
The programme this time It was great to see so many turn up initiative forward I am sure he
incorporated a third day with the on day three for the pass out wouldn’t mind me saying that
introduction of first aid to the especially as the weather was so thanks also need to go to Green
course. Other areas that were foul. and Blue Watch who were on duty
covered were practical firefighter Special mention must go to two of and supported this busy event.
skills including: our returning students who acted
as positive role models to those Role on Version four!
• Hose running and pump
operation who were new to the course. This
showed how far they had come SC Peter Hatherley
• Using Breathing Apparatus and with their own self confidence. Stevenage Fire StationFire safety lesson for
reception children
On Thursday 15 January a small group of reception
children from How Wood School visited St Albans Red
Watch. The group were given a tour of the fire station,
taught about the day to day running of a fire station and
how to stay safe in the home. This all helped with one
boy who had developed a fear of fire.
To aid them with home safety the group were taken to the
station Danger Den where they had to spot hazards had
had been set up in a mock house layout.
The group were shown around the fire appliances and
taught about all the equipment that is used, including the
RTC equipment and the new trauma kit. Afterwards we
took them into the yard to experience what it was like to use
the hose reels. The group thoroughly enjoyed themselves.
Ff Russell
Red Watch St Albans
Bishop’s Stortford White Watch
fundraise for cancer charity
On Sunday 15 February 2015 watch members’ families who all helped raise over £450 which has all
Bishop’s Stortford White Watch held helped serve the vast amounts of been donated to CCLG. There was a
a fundraising event at the station to people that visited the station whilst real buzz around the station on the
help raise funds and awareness for the duty crew offered fire safety day and the whole community
the Children’s Cancer and advice and handed out leaflets to help enjoyed the chance to visit their local
Leukaemia Group (CCLG) people within the local community fire station and meet White Watch.
stay safer within their homes.
The idea was put forward to the
Ff Wilkins
watch to hold a fundraiser in the form The fundraiser was a major success
White Watch Bishop’s Stortford
of a tea party as the 15 February is by creating a lot of awareness around
International Childhood Cancer the battle against cancer and also
Awareness Day. The watch were very
keen to support this cause as one of
the watch members has a four year
old niece who has recently recovered
from cancer.
White Watch promoted the event
around the town using posters, social
media and word of mouth. This
obviously worked as there were in
excess of 300 visitors to the station
from the local community. They also
arranged for local businesses to
support the event by donating tea,
coffee and cakes. The station was
extremely well supported by theRed Watch fire safety
with Stevenage
Borough Council
In February WC Smith was at the forefront of a
fire safety campaign together with Stevenage
Borough Council. This involved the watch along
with Steve McAlinden from Stevenage council,
Incident
and a team of workers, joining together to target
residents and fire safety in two Stevenage high
rises.
The teams moved through Harrow and Brent
Court ensuring all of the communal areas and
Response
cupboards are clear. Further to this the crew
ensured they spoke to the residents addressing
any needs they may have. From the fire service
perspective this was a worthwhile exercise. The
crews managed to engage with our target
Unit (IRU)
demographic and also generate home safety
visits.
This was well received by Stevenage Borough
Council who have already worked with Red Watch
on previous initiatives such as P.A.T testing
refresher
elderly peoples electric blankets in the run up to
winter. They want to work on more initiatives with
the station as it is proving a massive benefit to
the residents of Stevenage.
training
CC Marc Diplock
Red Watch Stevenage
The month of March saw crews from across the county
attend an annual IRU refresher training session at St
Albans Fire Station.
In addition to the IRU training, Initial Operational
Response (IOR) training was delivered to crews. The
session built on the IOR package currently available on
FireWeb, which involved a PowerPoint presentation to
all attendees followed by a table top exercise for all
Junior Officers and Flexi Duty Officers.
Thanks to all those that attended for their input and to
all of the Instructors and crews involved in the delivery.
CC Cinato
St Albans Red WatchRescue Support
Unit training
On Thursday 22 and Friday 23 January St Albans Red
Watch completed two days training on the new
Paratech equipment that has been purchased to go on
Exercise
Zira for
the new Rescue Support Unit (RSU).
The equipment is multifunctional so can be used for a
variety of different rescues, from trench collapse to
vehicle stabilisation.
The first day was spent at Longfield Training Centre
where we worked on stabilising and lifting large
vehicles. The second day was spent at St Albans
practising methods of shoring up building collapse and
HCC
resilience
setting up a bi-pod and tri-pod for use in rescues.
With the service wishing to increase the capability of
the Rescue Support Unit, this was very worthwhile
training to familiarise the crews with some of the new
equipment that has been purchased by the service. The Resilience Team held Exercise Zira earlier
this month to test emergency arrangements
Crews will be attending future courses to gain further across the council.
skills and knowledge in the use of this equipment for
future rescues. Taking place both at County Hall and Longfield
Training Centre, the exercise examined both the
authority’s Incident Response Plan and also the
Ff Mountfort
arrangements and running of an Incident
St Albans Red Watch Management Team meeting.
Representatives from all six council departments
took part in working through a scenario that
looked at an influenza outbreak in the county.
Two mock Incident Management Team meetings
took place at County Hall with arrangements for
the meetings and communication systems and
equipment being tested. At the same time a
range of officers from across departments met at
Longfield to see how the incident response could
be co-ordinated. With reference to the council
Incident Response Plan, this included looking at
business continuity arrangements and specifics
around how an influenza pandemic would need to
be approached.
A report is being collated that includes
recommendations and learning points for the
Resilience Team to take forward and implement.A timely
building work was taking place and to the Director whilst
with numerous Acro props conducting a full inspection which
obstructing an exit route and the resulted in a measured
rest of the office space had been enforcement response.
refresher condensed by a third to
accommodate this work. This also
meant that office desks were
At the time of the inspection it was
observed that work was being
On the 6 February 2015 St Albans blocking fire exits and combustible undertaken affecting structural
White Watch attended a district items were being stored walls which were supported by
development session run by WC inappropriately, including on top of temporary measures which could
Rob O’ Connor and WC Jim the wall heaters. impact on firefighter safety
Attenborough from the Fire considering the possibility of
Protection team to refresh the The district development session entrapment and or structural
crew’s knowledge of Fire input refreshed the knowledge of collapse.
Protection issues including Risk the crew and gave them the
confidence to know that the office The information was passed to
Based Inspections, contraventions command and control for any
of the Regulatory Reform (Fire staff would not have been as safe
from fire as they should have been, crews attending the premises and
Safety) Order and evidence a familiarisation visit for all crews
requirements needed at situations proving the training a success.
at St Albans was arranged.
such as post fire inspections. Appropriate advice was given to the
key holder to pass on to the office The training and observations from
This proved to be an informative the Fire Protection team together
and timely reminder as on the 9 manager and he was also told that
the Fire Protection department with the vigilance of the crews has
February as both St Albans bought together the specialisms of
appliances were called to an office would be informed.
fire safety and operations so that
building in Adelaide Street with On return to station, a call was the business has not only
smoke issuing. A key holder had placed to the Fire Protection duty remained open, due to the fire
arrived to open up for business and officer and they were advised of being extinguished efficiently, but
found the fire alarm activating and the concerns. they also now have a greater
the ground floor smoke logged. understanding of how easily fires
That day a post-fire inspection was in the workplace can start and how
Crews were committed and located carried out, the responsible person
the source of the fire to be an office they can prevent this by identifying
for the multi floored office building the hazards and putting
chair which had been left overnight seemed generally shaken up by the
in contact with an electric wall procedures in place to minimise
incident but took it as a wake up the risk.
heater. The situation was dealt call and wanted to do all that he
with and the office was ventilated. could to ensure that he would be WC Cliff Webb
The crew reported that there were safe and legal from now on. White Watch St Albans
fire safety issues in the affected
office. WC Webb went inside to Fire Safety Inspector WC Steve and
carry out fire investigation and Kendall assessed the premises WC Steve Kendall
found that some considerable and spoke to the members of staff Fire Safety InspectorSO Stevenage
provided a great opportunity to network and cement
those community links. The service was on hand to
offer fire safety advice with our own stall which was
well received by those who attended.
annual forum The highlight of the evening was an inspirational
presentation by Sinem Cakir who is a youth and social
Since starting in the Stevenage area in November inclusion specialist working together with excluded
2014 I have become greatly aware of the hard work young people to remove roadblocks so that they can
and joint partnership work that is happening on a get on and thrive. Sinem is based in London and the
daily basis to make Stevenage a safer and more main emphasis of her work is about reengaging with
enjoyable place to live and work. youths rather than discounting them and casting
them aside.
On Thursday 19 February 2015 I attended the SO
Stevenage annual forum at North Hertfordshire
The event showed me that there are strong
College in Stevenage with two volunteers Steve
partnership links in Stevenage whose aim is to make
Chrome and Jade Pearce.
Stevenage a better place, Stevenage Fire Station is
The event highlights the positives that have taken one of those partners and we look forward to working
place throughout the year and looks on how we can alongside our colleagues to achieve that aim.
move forward in the coming year.
SC Peter Hatherley
Agencies were invited to set up stalls and these Stevenage and North Herts District
Exercise
The aim of the exercise was to taking place three LWP’s were
establish sufficient water supplies being established at the lake which
to tackle a large developed fire at would then feed the HVP which in
the house. The water supplies on turn would pump the water up to
Oasis the estate have been severely
depleted due to the failure of their
emergency water supply, and the
the fire ground pumps at the house.
All the participating crews worked
Knebworth House, one of only options available are to utilise extremely hard, and the exercise
Hertfordshire most famous their swimming pool and the lake was a resounding success. The
landmarks was the setting for an on the estate. information collected will be used
exercise on 2 March for Pumps to formulate a new fire plan and
from Stevenage, Hitchin, Baldock, The initial attack came from a Light Pre-Determined Attendance (PDA)
Hatfield, and Welwyn Garden City Weight Pump set into the swimming for Knebworth house.
along with Hitchin’s Incident pool next to the house, followed by
Support Unit (ISU) and the High a water shuttle filling the inflatable CC Tom Morey
Volume Pump (HVP). dam from the ISU. Whilst this was Stevenage White WatchSmoke house training for St Albans Blue Watch
On Friday 20 February 2015 Blue entering a building, starting with a Blue Watch St Albans plan to carry
Watch St Albans were invited to thorough brief being given to the out a combined drill with the Police
watch the Police Initial Operational Police team regarding the entry to team in the summer to test our
Response Team go through a the building. This was followed by interoperability, this will involve us
training scenario held in the smoke how they deal with cannabis houses entering the building to rescue the
house at St Albans Community Fire and Methamphetamine labs and Police team lead them to safety and
Station. ended with how suspects are then carry out emergency
The team were practicing how they controlled and arrested. decontamination.
deal with incidents involving Blue Watch gained a valuable insight This will give us an ideal opportunity
suspected cannabis houses and on how the Police team worked and to discuss any learning points that
methamphetamine labs. Crews this will certainly help in the future arise and will assist any future
from St Albans Blue Watch should we attend an incident incidents we attend together.
shadowed them as they went involving a methamphetamine lab or CC Tasker
through the various stages of cannabis house. St Albans Blue Watch
Stevenage firefighters look forward to working with 1 decision
Stevenage Fire Station looks forward The interactive media that is used deliver safety messages. We hope that
to working together with 1 decision to allows sessions to be run by teachers, this partnership will grow allowing all
develop safety messages to young the sessions can be paused and the age groups the opportunity to interact
children at schools across Stevenage children have two choices the wrong and make decisions based on the
and Hertfordshire. one and the right one. Both scenarios correct information.
are shown so that the learning journey
1 decision has been developed by is achieved. Deedee is the animated character in
Hayley Sherwood (far right in the the role play engaging with the
picture) and their aim is to assist This is an ideal platform for us to children so watch out for Deedee
schools in helping students to become showcase crucial fire safety messages coming to an area near you soon.
confident communicators and safe and through our involvement, which initially
positive decision makers. will be filming scenarios that can SC Peter Hatherley
Stevenage and North Herts District
Joint working with Environmental Health
Following the Better Business for all event, Trading Standards have been working more closely with
Environmental Health. TS Officer Nicola Wickenden was taken out on two hygiene inspections in Watford,
which involved gaining a better understanding of how EH complete a food hygiene rating and what they look for
during inspections. Unfortunately, one of the premises had no hot water on the day, which nearly resulted in
an immediate premise closure. TS will be returning the favour shortly when they take Environmental Health
Officers out on allergens visits.Day Crewing Plus goes live at
Baldock and Letchworth
On 1 March a new day crewing plus (DCP) duty Crew Commander: Laurence Smith
system went live at Baldock and Letchworth station. Firefighter: John Nimmo
This is now the third DCP station and has involved Firefighter: Andy Mansfield
many months of planning and construction together Firefighter: Darren Lovelock
with a recruitment process to select the new DCP Firefighter: Adam Spendlove
team. The project has allowed us to maintain Firefighter: Gary Smith
operational cover and response times while releasing Firefighter: David Hayden
financial and other capacity within the service. Firefighter: Jerry Harris
Firefighter: Peter Golding
As well as a new accommodation block on-going Firefighter: John McGrinder
refurbishment will continue to take place within the Firefighter: Nigel Etherington
main station building. Baldock and Letchworth
personnel not moving onto DCP have now been The successful project was delivered as a result of
transferred to their new posts with the new DCP the hard work of the project team and the support
team consisting of: and enthusiasm of all staff at Baldock. We wish
them all well.
Watch Commander B: Julian Stanley
Crew Commander: Mark Lee SC Frank Gollogly
Crew Commander: Mark Pidduck Hertsmere and Welwyn Hatfield District
.................................................................................
Greg Rataj Retiring
28 February saw Greg Rataj retiring from Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service after 30 years’ service.
Greg joined on the 7 January 1985 and served at Welwyn
Garden City , Cheshunt, Borehamwood, St Albans, Staff Office
and Fire Protection before finishing off his career as Station
Commander for Baldock in Stevenage and North Herts.
Greg was a member of the Fire Investigation Team and as a
keen rugby player he represented the Service on many
occasions. I am sure that you would all like to wish Greg and
his family well for the future.
Good luck Greg have a long healthy and happy retirement.
SC Peter Hatherley
Stevenage and North Herts District
.................................................................................Are you thinking of getting a new bike? Would you like to cycle to work? Getting a bike may be cheaper than you think. We are re-launching the cycle to work salary sacrifice scheme in May, to help with the cost of new bicycles and cycling equipment up to £1,500. The scheme is part of the Government’s plan to encourage employees to cycle to work, through tax breaks on the cost of a bicycle. Here’s how it works: you spread the cost of a bicycle with twelve monthly payroll deductions - through a hire arrangement. Because you are technically hiring the bicycle over that period, you pay no tax and national insurance on the monthly deductions. After the twelve month period is up, a one-off disposal fee is paid and the bike is collected from you. Alternatively, under a separate arrangement, you can elect to transfer the ownership of the bike to you, by paying a fair market value. A standard rate tax payer can save around one third on the cost of a bicycle. And the county council benefits too – it does not need to contribute national insurance on your behalf on these payments. You can choose a bike from one of a number of participating bike shops in the county, or there will also be an opportunity to choose a bike online. The scheme is open to all HCC employees. However, the deductions made through the salary sacrifice must not take your earnings below minimum wage. Also, employees aged under 18 will need guardian consent to participate. Salary sacrifice is not for everyone. Salary sacrifice arrangements may impact on other benefits employees may be entitled to and further information on how salary sacrifice may affect your entitlements can be found on the HMRC website at www.hmrc.gov.uk More information about how you can take part will be available when the scheme launches in May. If you have any questions regarding the scheme please email payandreward@hertfordshire.gov.uk Discover Herts Rewards… Did you know that working for Hertfordshire entitles you to a large variety of rewards and benefits? In September 2013, Hertfordshire County Council unveiled Herts Rewards; a benefits package that is accessible to all employees including those in hard to reach locations. All employees (excluding schools staff) have access to Herts Reward scheme, which can be accessed from any computer, smart phone, or via a telephone helpline. There are three strands to Herts Rewards which cover lifestyle, finance, and wellbeing. You could start making substantial savings on your everyday shopping at supermarkets, DIY stores, clothes shops, mobile phone outlets and department stores, through reloadable gift cards and discount vouchers, or get your fitness on track by accessing discounts at local gyms, health and fitness centres, or manage your finances and take advantage of our season ticket loans. Whether you are looking at improving your finances, saving money on everyday items or want to focus on your wellbeing, Herts Rewards will be able to help. To find out more and to register, visit www.hertsrewards.co.uk You will need your payroll number - which can be found on your payslip, your date of birth and if you are registering online you will need an email address - this can be a personal email address or if you do not have one, you can use your work email. Alternatively if you wish to access Herts Rewards via the telephone helpline, the number is 0845 299 0908. Please note: if your Payroll number begins with a zero, please do not enter the zero when registering.
Safety Event Reports - Feedback
Reports made during February 2015. A regular briefing will be provided on the outcomes of some recent
near misses, hazards or accidents reported to the Health & Safety Department.
Issue Findings Outcome & progress
Three Firefighters • A section of the flue fell from the • Crew immediately ensured that dust masks were
identified disturbed chimney breast during the removal used for the remainder of the incident to eliminate the
asbestos whilst in of the fireplace log burner. The risk of breathing in any fibres.
attendance at a chimney fallen object was identified as a pipe • Crew bagged their PPE for cleaning, as per service
constructed of asbestos material by procedure, purely as a precautionary step.
fire incident.
the Firefighters. • The homeowner was advised on the safe removal of
• The asbestos was wet limiting any the asbestos by the crew.
possible release of fibres and • Crews should always be mindful that asbestos
exposure. containing materials can found in many places and
that SIS procedures must be followed upon discovery:
http://compass.hertscc.gov.uk/compdocs/compadob
e/o/ops047v03.pdf
During a building fire, a • The Firefighter was assisting an • Crew were briefed on hose choice options.
Firefighter sprained his initial crew with hose management • All crews are reminded to follow correct equipment
wrist whilst lifting a when the injury happened. manual handling techniques to prevent injury.
70mm hose from the floor. • The first pump in attendance
utilised the 70mm hose, however
His injury was reportable
service procedure also permits the
to the HSE under RIDDOR use of a 51mm hose (OPS 57 page
as it resulted in over a 7 11) which is lighter and may have
day absence period from lessened the chance of injury.
work. • Weather and light conditions were
good at the time of the incident.
• Full fire PPE was being worn by
the Firefighter.
A Hydrant Inspector • The cover had jammed so extra • Refresher manual handling training for staff has
strained his lower back force was required to try & lift it. been identified as a result of this incident.
lifting a hydrant cover. • The risk assessment had • Tech Services to research appropriate lifting tools to
recognised this as a potential reduce risk of manual handling injury.
manual handling hazard and
controls were identified to seek help
if the hydrant had been assessed
and identified as requiring force
beyond individual capability.
Two Firefighters have • One has been fully investigated To prevent manual handling injury during ladder
injured themselves whilst and the other incident is still under training crews should be reminded to
pitching ladders during inquiry. • Warm up prior to the exercise.
two separate training • There have been four injuries that • Assess the task, area & environment.
relate to the pitching of ladders in • Follow instruction, training & procedure.
exercises. One injury
the last year. • Ensure equipment is in good working order and is
resulted in back strain the used correctly.
other in shoulder pain. • Not overreach / overstretch or jolt suddenly.
One of the incidents also • Ensure the ladder is under control.
resulted in lost time. • Highlight any pre-existing condition (temporary or
permanent) to instructors.
Smoke & LPG fumes from • Tests with artificial smoke • Use of the gym and burners simultaneously were
a station smoke house confirmed where & how smoke prohibited until the wall cavities could be plugged.
were entering into the entered the building.
station’s gym area. • Wall cavities were identified as the
smoke & fume route of entry into the
building.Issue Findings Outcome & progress
A Firefighter strained his The accident happened during the • The area was defected.
calf muscle when he start of darkness, the area was • Lighting deficiencies were addressed.
tripped & lost his footing in poorly lit and building shadow • Further drill yard inspection confirmed other uneven
a drill yard pothole. His concealed the uneven surface. surfaces in need of maintenance.
• HCC were contacted for all surface repairs.
injury was reportable to
• Stations must ensure that poor surface conditions &
the HSE under RIDDOR as inadequate lighting are identified during inspections &
it resulted in over a 7 day audits and are made good to prevent trip / fall injuries.
absence period from work.
Serious burn damage • PAT was well overdue • The extension cable was removed from use.
was discovered on an (equipment should have been • A sign was displayed to prevent further use of the wall socket.
extension cable, its plug retested in 2011). • The wall socket was defected.
and the wall socket • An electrician was called to • Crews were reminded to check the condition of cables,
investigate the fault & confirmed plugs and sockets before using electrical equipment and
during PAT inspection.
that the damage was caused by an where practicable to avoid leaving electrical items
old, worn socket which had permanently switched on.
started to arc. • Buildings Manger was contacted to see if sockets on
other stations could potentially have this fault too.
• To prevent electrical fire and injury staff should be
reminded of the importance of regular electrical
equipment & socket visual checks, PAT inspection, not
overloading extension plugs & good housekeeping
practices.
• Station Commanders are responsible for ensuring that PAT
testing is completed in accordance with equipment testing
schedules (see link below H&S 010 - Use Of Electricity At Work)
http://compass.hertscc.gov.uk/compdocs/compadobe/h/
hs_10v2.pdf
During a fire (persons • The TIC had been switched on en • TIC was taken off the run for further examination after
reported) the thermal route to the incident and was in the incident.
imaging camera (TIC) good working order in its charger. • Tests were carried out on the TIC by the Station,
failed to operate. • On arrival the TIC was removed Technical Services and Health & Safety to successfully
from charger & rested on the floor recreate the fault.
whilst crew donned BA. • Residue, believed to be a lubricant, was found on the TIC
• Upon building entry the TIC went battery contact terminals. Terminals were wiped with a
off & could not be switched back on. dry cloth which seemed to solve the issue.
• Crew exited the building and • TIC fault is believed to have been resolved; however the
handed the TIC to the OIC who TIC is still being monitored.
managed to turn it back on. • Crews are reminded to regularly test TIC equipment &
• Crew re-entered the building & clean terminals to ensure equipment reliability.
continued to use the TIC with no
further issue.
Two Fire Protection Actions as a result of this incident • Staff and managers are reminded to follow the guidance
inspectors were verbally are still being identified and a full in SIS HS 20 Lone Working & Personal Safety Guidelines
abused during an investigation is being completed found on Compass:
enforcement visit. by the Manager http://compass.hertscc.gov.uk/compdocs/compadobe/h/
hs020v3.pdf
• Practical tips include:-
- Flagging a property / person if there is a risk of abusive
or violent behaviour so staff are aware.
- Ensuring potential violent and abusive behaviour is risk
assessed.
- Not going into a situation if there is a sense of risk.
- Being aware of surroundings & alert to the situation of
the environment.
- If feeling threatened, making excuses and leaving the
premises quickly if needed.
- Doubling-up if there is thought to be a possible risk of
violence or particular concerns.
Feedback is welcomed on this document in particular the design layout and level of detail provided. Please email:
veronica.adlam@hertfordshire.gov.ukSecurity, personal safety and abuse at work
There have been a number of incidents recently and in the past involving the thefts of items of equipment and
fuel from stations. This highlights the potential vulnerability of our staff working and sleeping on stations.
For Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service employees there is also a Service Policy SIS HS20 - Lone Working
and Personal Safety Guidance:
Lone working Visitors unoccupied, not only to prevent
intruders but wind and rain can
Lone working is a real risk for All sites should have a visitors’ cause untold damage to files,
staff such as cooks, cleaners and book – it looks professional and furniture and equipment.
administrative or clerical serves as a welcome point for Digital locks are installed to
personnel left behind when crews anyone entering the premises – restrict access and for building
are out. They are vulnerable when asking people to sign in gives security as well as personal safety
isolated so please make sure that personnel the opportunity to tell and should be used at all times.
when you do leave the station visitors where the facilities are on
access doors are shut and locked the site (e.g. toilets; smoking area; Regularly check that security
properly behind you. canteen etc.). lighting and automatic sensors are
working correctly.
The codes for digital locks should It also provides a record of who is
be logged with Fire Control to on the site if there is an emergency If strangers are found on service
allow emergency access where situation and the building has to be premises this should be reported
necessary. evacuated. to the Police and Fire Control
informed.
An arrangement has been made
with Fire Control to enable lone Contractors
workers (e.g. clerks working alone Maintenance contractors and
Abuse at work
in a station) to ‘log in’ at their servicing engineers make Under the Emergency Workers
location. themselves known to site (Obstruction) Act 2006 great
personnel. measures are provided to protect
This arrangement also covers
employees of the Fire Service who They may need Permission to firefighters, ambulance crews,
may find themselves in difficulties Work and to examine the Asbestos police officers and other
whilst travelling between stations Register. emergency workers from the
and sites, such as a result of a If they are carrying out hazardous threat of assault. It is an offence to
breakdown, road traffic collision or tasks such as working at height, assault, obstruct or hinder
illness. hot work (welding) or using someone providing an emergency
chemicals everyone on site needs service and this included whenever
In these circumstances, if any to know who and where they are. they are on duty and also when
member of staff feels vulnerable Hot work must be approved by the dealing with the emergency.
or threatened in any way they Service Buildings Manager (Chris
should consider, in the first If you are subject to any type of
Martindale). abuse, verbal or physical,
instance, telephoning the police.
However, they may also contact threatening behaviour or
Fire Control to alert them to their Site security harassment whilst working you
predicament and it may be must complete HFRS 75 form (see
If CCTV has been installed at your below) and if this occurs during an
possible to dispatch assistance site someone needs to take
whilst awaiting attendance of the operational incident it should be
responsibility for monitoring its recorded on the IRS form.
police, ambulance or breakdown operation and ensuring that the
service. recordings are backed-up http://compass.hertscc.gov.uk/pp/
The contact number for Fire regularly. comprotpolproc/frpolproc/forms/
Control is 01438 499003. hfrs0075hsfolder/hfrs0075hsmeta
Don’t leave personal belongings
file
or high value items such as
Suitable arrangements should be
laptops on full view in your car. The service takes seriously any
in place to ensure the safety of
visitors or contractors if there is an abuse of firefighters and other
Secure wallets, purses or
operational call. This includes members of staff and will provide
handbags in lockers or drawers
providing them with guidance and all the support necessary to
whilst at work.
warnings regarding the potential investigate and prevent a
movement of vehicles and Make sure all windows and doors recurrence. This may include
personnel. are locked when the station is left involving the police in the matter.You can also read
