News Headlines... December 2010
To go straight to any of December's news click on the links below.
Flooded Properties | Fire at Farm | Factory Fire | Animal Rescue | Road Traffic Incidents | Christmas Cooking Warning | Alvechurch House Fire | Wolverley Water Rescue | Burst Pipes | Carbon Monoxide | Occupants Lucky to Escape | Winter Safety Advice | Don't Step on the Ice - Even if it Looks Safe! | Drivers Emergency Kit | Burst Pipe Warning | Chimney Fire Warning | Positive Partnership Work | Pilot Scheme Launch | Christmas Safety Messages | Suspected Gas Leak | Mobile Home Fire | Fatal M5 Collision | Chemical Leak | Carol Service | EBT Results | MP Visit | Cow Rescue | Dog River Rescue | Flat Fire Rescue | Frozen Pond & River Warning | Celebration of Success
Flooded Properties - Across Both Counties
Friday 31st December, 2010
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service firefighters have been called to around 86 flooded properties across both counties between Christmas Eve and the bank holiday period.
The majority of calls came in on Monday December 27, 2010 as the thaw began, and affected domestic, commercial and public premises in cities, towns and villages across Herefordshire and Worcestershire. In a twenty-four hour period (between 8:00am on Monday morning and 7:59am the following day), the Service took 48 calls in relation to flooded properties.
Community Safety Manager, Grant Wills said, "This was an extremely busy time for the Service. Our crews worked to minimise further damage and ensure that businesses and residents across both counties could recover more quickly from the disaster they suffered.
"There may be more calls to flooded properties – particularly if buildings remain unused and are not inspected until the New Year."
He recommended that pipes should be checked and suitably insulated and that people know what to do should a pipe burst, whether at home or at work. This includes identifying where the stop tap is located and knowing how to safely turn off both water and electrical supplies in an emergency in order to minimise damage.
Stoke Edith Farm Fire
Wednesday 29th December, 2010
Firefighters were called to a fire at a farm in Stoke Edith in Hereford shortly after 2am this morning (Wednesday 29 December).
Three fire crews from Hereford attended along with the Restricted Access Vehicle from Peterchurch and the water carrier from Ross, and on arrival, found two trailer units, a tractor unit and a burger van style vehicle stored near them all alight.
Three hose reel jets and the Compressed Air Foam System (CAFS) were used to help extinguish the fire and while the stop message was given at around 4am, damping down at the scene continued for a couple of hours after this.
There were no injuries as a result of the fire and the cause has yet to be established.
Fire at Meat Production Factory
Wednesday 29th December, 2010
Firefighters were called to a fire at a meat production factory in Grandstand Road, Hereford, at around 8am this morning.
Three appliances from Hereford attended and found that a small fire had broken out on a food conveyor belt in one of the large ovens at the premises.
The fire was contained in one compartment within the oven and four firefighters in breathing apparatus used two hose reel jets to bring it under control.
Station Manager Phil Major from Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service said: "Fire crews were at the scene within minutes and, working alongside engineers from the factory, were able to put out the fire very quickly."
No one was injured during the incident, and the stop message was given just after 9.20am.
Animal Rescue at Goodrich
Sunday 26th December, 2010
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) helped get essential water supplies to a farm in Goodrich at the weekend following reports that several animals had died from the effects of the cold and dehydration.
The farmer called H&WFRS shortly after 8am on Sunday 26 December explaining that all water supplies at the farm, including the 1,000 litre bowsers normally used as contingency supplies, were frozen solid and that the rare breed pigs and long horn cattle kept at the farm had not had water for two days due to the freezing temperatures.
He reported that one sow and several young piglets had died and that the remaining 700 pigs and 40 long horn cattle were in considerable distress due to the lack of water.
The animals normally require up to 4,000 litres of water a day, and the lack of water was having a major impact on lactating sows producing milk for their suckling piglets.
Station Manager Martin Lown from H&WFRS went along to the farm to make the initial assessment. He said: "Clearly the situation had reached a critical point and so we sent along an appliance from Whitchurch with a crew of six who were able to pump water to fill troughs and drinking barrels, to ensure all the animals could finally get some water."
He explained that by running the water through the appliance pump, it warmed it up and helped to delay re-freezing. The crew spent around five hours at the farm, refilling the appliance four times and filling two bowsers to ensure all animals were able to get drinking water until water supplies at the farm started to return to normal.
Firefighters called to road traffic incidents
Wednesday 22 December, 2010
As the 'big freeze' continues, firefighters from Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service have been called to rescue people involved in a series of road traffic incidents.
Two crews from Bewdley and one from Shropshire were called to Clows Top road, Bayton, Worcestershire just before 1:45pm yesterday (Wednesday 22 December 2010) with reports of a road traffic incident involving one car and persons trapped. Firefighters arrived at the scene to find a saloon car on its side in a field. They stabilised the vehicle before using hydraulic cutting gear to extricate a female casualty who was then passed to ambulance personnel for medical assessment and treatment.
Then at 1:52pm that day, two crews from Bromyard were called to a two vehicle road traffic collision on the B4214 in Bromyard with persons reported trapped. Firefighters made the vehicle safe and released the trapped casualty who was conveyed to hospital by land ambulance.
This morning (Thursday 23 December 2010) at 7:26am, two crews from Worcester were called to attend a road traffic incident on the A443 Little Witley, Worcestershire. Firefighters arrived at the scene to find a van on its side with no persons trapped. They made the vehicle safe before leaving the incident in the hands of Police and recovery services.
Community Safety Manager, Grant Wills said; "These incidents serve as a reminder that all road users must take particular care as the cold weather continues."
Christmas Cooking Warning
Wednesday 22 December, 2010
As part of this year's Christmas safety campaign, Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) are urging people not to leave their cooking unattended.
Grant Wills, Community Safety Manager at H&WFRS, explained: "Many people will be buying a large joint of meat for Christmas that takes several hours to cook and while it may be tempting to pop it in the oven and then leave it cooking as you go out or even up to bed, we'd advise against doing this to avoid any risk of fire.
While it might not be feasible to stay in the kitchen the whole time that it takes to cook a larger joint, we'd advise that it is checked at regular intervals as a minimum."
He also reminded people not to cook while under the influence of alcohol, and urged everyone to spend a few minutes checking that their smoke alarms are working properly and that they have spare batteries. He warned that people should never be tempted to raid their smoke alarm to find a battery for a new Christmas toy needing a similar sized battery to operate.
Smoke alarm warning following Alvechurch house fire
Wednesday 22 December, 2010
Residents in North Worcestershire are being reminded to test their smoke alarms following a serious house fire in Alvechurch in the early hours of this morning (Wednesday 22 December).
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) were called to the fire at a semi-detached house in Snake Lane just after 1am, and three pumps from Redditch and one from Bromsgrove attended. Four firefighters in breathing apparatus helped tackle the blaze, which had started in the lounge and then swept through the ground floor of the house, causing significant damage. They used two hose reels, a covering jet and a thermal imaging camera as they extinguished the fire and then positive pressure ventilation equipment to help clear smoke from the property.
Three occupants were able to make their own way out of the house prior to the arrival of fire crews. They were checked at the scene by ambulance staff for the effects of smoke inhalation and then taken to hospital.
Group Manager Keith Chance from H&WFRS said: "Despite the terrible road conditions, we managed to get to the scene very quickly and the fire was brought under control within an hour.
"Thankfully no one was seriously hurt as a result of this fire but the ground floor of the house was extensively damaged, and it certainly serves as a stark reminder for everyone to double-check that their smoke alarms are in full working order as the holiday period approaches."
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Warning following Wolverley water rescue
Wednesday 22 December, 2010
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) are warning people to take extra care near icy water after two males were rescued from marshland in Wolverley, near Kidderminster, in the early hours of this morning (Wednesday 22 December).
The initial call came through shortly before midnight on Tuesday 21 December reporting that two males were stuck waist-height in water in marshland off Mill Lane.
Two fire appliances from Kidderminster attended along with the water rescue craft from Worcester, and the two males were rescued by fire service personnel using throw lines. The males, who were both extremely cold, were taken to hospital but are not believed to have suffered any long term ill effects.
Station Manager Grant Wills from H&WFRS explained: "This route is used regularly by locals as a cut through, but we are urging people to avoid using it while the snowy conditions continue, particularly once darkness falls, as it's very difficult to pick out the footpath. The dangers of icy water cannot be under-estimated and these two males were lucky to have been brought to safety so quickly."
With the cold weather set to continue into the Christmas period, he urged everyone to be extra cautious around water, encouraging people to keep their children and their dogs well away from frozen water.
Burst pipes flood properties
Tuesday 21st December, 2010
Burst pipes flood a string of properties across Worcestershire resulting in several callouts for the counties Fire and Rescue Service.
The first call came in at around 1:00am on Monday morning (20th December 2010), where Bromsgrove firefighters had to isolate electrical supplies and pump water from a flooded property. Twelve hours later a Kidderminster care home called the Fire and Rescue Service to deal with a case of severe flooding affecting the electrics on their premises. Shortly afterwards, Redditch firefighters were dealing with the flooding of two properties in the town.
Then, just before 7pm that evening and again in the early hours of the morning, Worcester firefighters were called upon to deal with flooded city properties where electrics had to be isolated.
Community Safety Manager, Grant Wills said, "It is important that property occupiers ensure their pipes are properly lagged to prevent freezing. This is particularly important if you plan to leave your premises unoccupied for a period during the Christmas holiday – with sub-zero temperatures predicted, getting someone you trust to check on your property whilst you're away could prevent a great deal of damage."
Carbon Monoxide – Don't let the silent killer get you or your loved ones!
Tuesday 21st December, 2010
With the cold weather forecast to continue, Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service is reminding householders to ensure heaters and boilers are properly serviced and to also consider fitting carbon monoxide detectors in their home.
Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless, tasteless gas that is produced in excess when carbon-based fuels do not burn properly. Every year people die from carbon monoxide poisoning caused by gas appliances and flues that have not been properly installed, maintained or that are poorly ventilated.
By taking a few simple precautions you can avoid the risks from carbon monoxide poisoning.
Please take time to visit www.carbonmonoxidekills.com.
Information can also be found on the website of the Carbon Monoxide and Gas Safety Society.
Finally, don't forget to ensure you have a working smoke alarm on every level of your home and test them every week. Standard smoke alarm batteries should be replaced once a year.
Occupants lucky to escape fire!
Tuesday 21st December, 2010
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service were called to a Worcester property where the occupants were lucky to escape following a cooker fire.
The Service was called shortly after midday on Sunday 19th December 2010, to the domestic property in the city. Two crews attended the incident and used rapid deployment to enter the property wearing their new Draeger breathing apparatus and extinguished the flames with hose reels.
The occupants were treated at the scene by ambulance personnel.
Station Manager, Dan Quinn said; “The occupants were very fortunate to escape as there were no working smoke alarms in the property. Householders must always watch their cooking and clear any oil or fatty spillages from cookers and grill pans. Smoke alarms should be fitted and tested every week as working smoke alarms can and do save lives!”
Don't Let the Good Feeling Go this Christmas
Monday 20th December, 2010
A hard hitting advert showing the devastating effects of a Christmas tree fire has been produced and shown around Herefordshire & Worcestershire in the Fire and Rescue Service’s winter safety campaign.
The campaign ‘Good Feeling Gone’ has helped to raise awareness of the potential dangers in the home during the winter months and particularly during the run up to Christmas.
The advert shows how an overloaded plug socket catches fire and then spreads to a nearby Christmas tree. Within minutes the whole tree is engulfed in flames and the Christmas presents underneath the tree are destroyed. View the video here...
Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Tony Prosser said: “Christmas is a time for celebration but we just want to remind people to take a little extra care around the home. There are some really simple steps which can be followed.
Please remember:
- Don’t overload electrical sockets. Too many electrical appliances plugged into one mains point via an adaptor can overload it!
- Electrical appliances, plugs and cables that are old or poorly wired can also be a real danger. Many domestic fires start in the kitchen - NEVER leave cooking unattended.
- Make sure candles are secured in a stable holder and kept away from curtains, fabric or other flammable materials. They should also be kept out of draughts and away from children and animals.
- Always put candles out when you are leaving the room or going to bed.
- Be careful when using open fires to keep warm - make sure you always use a fire guard.
- Keep chimneys and flues clean and well maintained.
Most importantly ensure you have a working smoke alarm on every level of your home and test them every week. Standard smoke alarm batteries should be replaced once a year.
Don't step on the ice - Even if it might look safe!
Monday 20th December, 2010
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service reissued its warning for residents to stay off frozen water following the death of a man in Essex yesterday (Sunday 19 December 2010).
This incident follows one in the two counties where Herefordshire firefighters rescued a boy from a frozen lake in January 2010. Now that the Christmas holidays have started with many of our lakes, ponds, canals and sections of rivers frozen, the Fire and Rescue Service is issuing the following advice:
Please remember:
- Do not go onto ice-covered lakes, ponds or rivers – it’s not safe. (In the event of entering icy water hypothermia can set in very quickly reducing the ability to get out safely).
- The ice closest to the bank may appear to be thick but it may become thinner in other areas.
- If a dog or another animal falls through the ice, do not go to its rescue, if the ice did not support the animal it will not take your weight.
- Do not become a victim; always call the Emergency Services on 999.
- If you do see a person or animal in difficulties call 999 and direct the Emergency Services to the scene on their arrival.
Drivers Cold Weather 'Emergency Kit'
Friday 17 December, 2010
With temperatures plummeting even further and more snow forecast, it is important for motorists to be prepared to deal with the challenges of travelling in adverse weather conditions. The Safer Roads Partnership in West Mercia is advising motorists to pack an 'Emergency Kit' in their car this winter in case of roadside breakdown or delay.
The kit should include items such as an ice-scraper, torch, warm clothes and a blanket, a pair of boots, a first aid kit, battery jump leads, a shovel for snow, food and drink and sunglasses to help see in low winter sun. Motorists are also advised to make sure their mobile phone is fully charged before heading off on a journey.
Katy Jenkins at the Safer Roads Partnership in West Mercia says: "It is worth taking a few minutes to put a few items in your car that may be essential if you break down or experience a delay due to snowy or icy conditions. You may not need to use them but you'll be glad you packed them if you do."
For more advice click here…
This advice was first issued earlier in the month.
Burst pipe warning as temperatures forecast to drop
Friday 17 December, 2010
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) are encouraging homes and businesses across the two counties to double check that pipes and tanks are suitably insulated following a spate of calls to flooded premises during the recent 'big freeze'.
Area Manager Mark Preece said, "With temperatures expected to drop once again and the Christmas shut-down period only days away, a few simple precautions could save a significant amount of time, money and effort!"
A Kidderminster store* was recently flooded when a water pipe on the roof of the building had frozen then burst, filling the roof space with water which then cascaded down onto the shop floor below it and exposing the buildings electrical installation to a deluge of water in the process –creating a potentially fatal risk inside the premises.
Mark Preece said, "Firefighters attending this incident had to isolate both electricity and water supplies before dealing with the floodwater so that staff could begin the salvage operation."
"Clearly a flood incident of this nature can be very disruptive and costly for business, particularly in the busy period just before Christmas and we are keen to encourage everyone to do what they can to prevent pipes freezing and bursting, especially with the cold snap set to continue."
He recommended that all pipes are insulated and that people know what to do should a pipe burst, whether at home or at work. This includes identifying where the stop tap is located and knowing how to safely turn off both water and electrical supplies in an emergency.
Increasing chimney fires - spark warning!
Friday 17 December, 2010
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) are urging residents to make sure their chimneys are swept and ready for winter if they haven't already done so. The warning follows significant increases in the numbers of chimney fire for the months September, October and November this year when compared to the same period last year.
The latest incident took place this morning (Thursday 16 December), when crews from Ewyas Harold and Hereford were called to a detached property in Allensmore, Herefordshire. Firefighters arriving at the scene found the ground floor well alight and the first floor of the building smoke logged. A male occupant managed to escape and was treated by paramedics whilst firefighters brought the fire under control.
Warning of just how serious chimney fires can be, Station Manager, Neil Pigott said: "The gentleman in this case was fortunate to escape – although the building is gutted.
"Chimney fires can be prevented. Regular inspection and cleaning of chimney flues will help eliminate the build-up of soot from coal, wood, oil and gas fired systems, while sweeping will also clear obstructions like bird nests, leaves and debris."
He explained that the Fire Service tend to see a seasonal rise in chimney fires at this time of year but that statistics for November this year were particularly concerning.
He added: "November saw the Service attend 43 fires compared to 23 in November 2009. And with the predictions for more cold weather, we are keen to encourage householders to do all that they can to prevent chimney fires in their own homes."
He urged anyone burning coal, logs, smokeless fuel or oil to act now to help keep their homes safe by making an appointment to have their chimney swept if they have not already done so this winter, and to ensure their smoke alarms are in full working order – and tested on a weekly basis!
He advised that:
- Chimneys using smokeless fuel, coal or oil, should be swept at least once a year
- Chimneys using wood should be swept quarterly when in use
- A fireguard is placed in front of the fire at all times
- Fires are extinguished before going to bed or leaving the property unattended
- Do not burn paper or rubbish on fires in the grate
- Check for smoke from cracks in the in the chimney breast
- Install a working smoke alarm in the roof space
- Consider fitting a carbon monoxide detector
Further home safety advice is available at www.hwfire.org.uk while details of approved chimney sweeps operating in your area can be found at the following websites:
www.apics.org.uk
www.guildofmasterchimneysweeps.co.uk
www.nacs.org.uk
Positive partnership work
Friday 17 December, 2010
A group of clients from the organisation Turning Point were presented with Certificates of Achievement during a visit today (Wednesday 15 November) to Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) Headquarters in Charles Hastings Way, Worcester.
The group had all successfully completed a series of challenges at Kidderminster Fire Station on 29 & 30 September as part of the 'Ignite' programme.
Turning Point is a national social care organisation that offers support to people with drug or alcohol problems, mental health issues, learning disabilities or a combination of these issues. This particular group, a mix of males and females from the Worcestershire area, have all been involved in substance misuse in the past and are at various stages of recovery following either alcohol or drug misuse.
Watch Manager Ade Taylor from H&WFRS explained: "We have been working closely with Turning Point in Kidderminster to help provide new opportunities for people who have had a difficult time but are working hard to get their lives back on track.
"Through the 'Ignite' programme, we were able to offer some of their clients a chance to experience the type of team-building and motivational sessions that our firefighters might face as part of their training.
"During the two-day session, the group took part in search and rescue operations in blindfolds and were also asked to construct an improvised dam, a task they completed with minimal instruction and to a very high standard.
"We were really impressed with the way they worked together to find solutions to the challenges we set for them and we hope that the experience will have been a useful one."
Area Manager Mark Preece, who presented the Certificates of Achievement, said: "This is an example of partnership working at its best, offering individuals who want to move forward a genuine opportunity to experience new situations and learn new skills. The feedback we have had has been very positive and we would look to running similar exercises in the future."
Zoe Miller, Programmes Coordinator at Turning Point added: "'Ignite' is now an integral part of the programme we offer, giving group members an opportunity to learn problem-solving strategies, communication skills and the importance of team work as well as chance to be part of a real life work environment. All previous group members rate the 'Ignite' experience highly, and it is one of the highlights of our programme. From our perspective, it is also a successful example of the importance of partnership working."
One of the participants from the Turning Point programme added: "The 'Ignite' course at Kidderminster fire station was one of the best experiences of my life. I realised that I am capable of becoming a fire-fighter, and I am now so determined, motivated and focused on achieving this and having a career with H&WFRS'.
As part of today's visit, the group from Turning Point were also given a tour of the different departments at Fire Service HQ to help gain a greater understanding of the range of work that fire officers and the Community Safety Team get involved in.
Pilot scheme launched in North Worcestershire
Wednesday 15 December, 2010
A new scheme aimed at changing behaviour patterns of young people previously involved in starting fires has been piloted in North Worcestershire.
The scheme, organised by Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) in conjunction with local policing teams and the Anti-Social Behaviour Team in Redditch, aims to make young fire-setters more aware about the consequences of their actions and encourages them to get involved in more positive activities.
Five youngsters, all males aged between 11 – 14 from the Redditch area, were invited to take part in the pilot project, which ran for three days from Wednesday 8 December.
The first two days of the workshop were spent at Redditch Fire Station where the five teenagers, who have all been involved in starting fires in the past, learned more about fire safety and the devastating consequences that fire can have. They looked in depth at anti-social behaviour and its effects, particularly on more vulnerable members of the community, and they also had the opportunity to get involved in a road traffic collision demonstration.
Their third day was spent at Droitwich Fire Station where they joined the Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) team to look at some of the more specialised rescue work that H&WFRS gets involved in.
Adele Watkin from H&WFRS's Community Safety team said: "We recognise that the reasons for youngsters starting fires deliberately are complex and vary from individual to individual, and the strength of this pilot scheme is that it brings the various agencies together to look at each aspect.
"The three-day workshop has provided an opportunity to engage directly with the young people to help change their behaviour patterns rather than simply looking at preventative measures. The feedback we have had so far from all those involved has been encouraging, and we are hoping that at least one of the them will go on to join our Young Firefighter programme, which runs in both Redditch and Droitwich."
Redditch Young Firefighters is held every Thursday evening between 7pm - 9pm at Redditch Fire Station, while the Droitwich branch meet every Wednesday night between at 7pm – 9pm at Droitwich Fire Station. More information is available at www.hwfire.org.uk under the Young People section.
Christmas fire safety message promoted in Redditch
Tuesday 14 December, 2010
Firefighters will be going into a Redditch store next week to help promote the Christmas fire safety message.
They will be at Marks & Spencers in the Kingfisher Shopping Centre between 11am and 3pm on Tuesday 21 December, Thursday 23 December and Friday 24 December where, along with Redditch Young Firefighters, they will be helping customers pack their shopping.
They will also be using this opportunity to hand out flyers and a re-usable bag highlighting the key Christmas safety messages.
These include being vigilant with candles and Christmas wrapping paper, and taking care not to overload sockets. They also encourage people not to leave cooking unattended, or cook when under the influence of alcohol, and to look out for elderly or vulnerable family and friends over the Christmas period.
They also highlight how vital it is to have a smoking alarm fitted in the home and to test it regularly.
The re-usable bags, which have been funded in partnership with Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service and Redditch Community Safety Partnership, highlight the importance of smoke alarms and encourage people to include a 9V battery on their Christmas lists.
Station Manager Phil Griffiths said: "This message is more important than ever over the Christmas period and we hope that people will spend a few moments checking their alarms are working properly and that they have spare batteries."
Any donations made during the bag-pack will go to The Fire Fighters Charity and the Young Firefighters Association.
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service Experience "Busy Hour" 
Monday 13 December, 2010
"Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service experienced an exceptionally busy hour," said Group Manager Mick Cadman following a series of emergency calls on Sunday (12th December 2010) morning between 6-7am.
Group Manager Cadman continued; "This resulted in the Service responding to a number of incidents simultaneously, demonstrating within a very short space of time the many skills and wide range of specialist vehicles and equipment that Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service maintains in order to respond in a manner that that our communities deserve."
Suspected Gas Leak in Redditch
Monday 13 December, 2010
At 06:14 on Sunday Morning Hereford and Worcester received a call from Ambulance Control, to a possible gas leak at an address in the Redditch area where the occupants were unable to leave the premises. One fire appliance from Redditch arrived very quickly to the 3 bedroom detached dwelling.
Two occupants were assisted from the building by fire-fighters wearing breathing apparatus and treated at the scene by paramedics before being taken to hospital for precautionary checks. The premises was investigated by fire crews for gas using gas monitoring equipment and later ventilated. Transco also attended and checked the house for a gas leak before being left with a relative of the occupants.
Mobile Home fire
Monday 13 December, 2010
Hereford firefighters were called to a mobile home fire 06:53am on Sunday 12 December 2010, at Romany Close Hereford.
Two crews from Hereford (Green Watch) arrived promptly at the scene of the incident and found a large single mobile home well alight. Two adults and five children managed to escape the fire and were conveyed to hospital by ambulance. Fire crews used breathing apparatus and hose-reels to bring the fire under control and a third appliance (Hereford on-call) attended to ensure adequate water supplies.
All the casualties were reported to be in a satisfactory condition later that morning.
The cause of the fire is unknown at this stage.
Man Dies in M5 Motorway Collision
Monday 13 December, 2010
Man Dies in M5 Motorway Collision
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service were called at 7:09am on Sunday the 12th of December 2010 to assist Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service following reports of a serious road traffic collision involving four vehicles on the M5 motorway between junctions 9 and 8.
The incident involved four vehicles; an articulated lorry, a coach and two cars with reports of persons trapped - at its height, both north and southbound carriageways were closed.
Crews from Worcester (2), Upton (1) and the Incident Support Unit from Droitwich (1), promptly attended the scene along with Gloucestershire crews from Tewksbury (2) and Cheltenham (1) to deal with the incident which affected both carriageways.
Fire crews quickly implemented command and control procedures to make the scene safe, and assisted ambulance crews with multiple casualty care. Eight casualties were removed to hospital via land ambulances, whilst the Ambulance Incident Response Unit cared for a number of other casualties on scene before they were conveyed to hospital for the treatment of minor injuries and the effects of cold weather.
Fire crews assisted with the recovery of one fatality at the scene and left the incident in the hands of Gloucestershire Police.
Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information is asked to ring Gloucestershire Constabulary on 0845 090 1234 quoting incident 132 of December 12.
Chemical leak
Monday 6 December, 2010
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) were called to Hopwood Services, off Junction 2 of the M42 motorway, this morning (Wednesday 8 December) following reports of a chemical leak from a tanker.
The call was received at 6.10am and three fire crews from Redditch plus one from Bromsgrove attended along with the Incident Response Unit from Droitwich and the Environmental Protection Unit (EPU) from Stourport. The Command Support Unit (CSU) and supporting appliance from Malvern also attended.
On arrival, crews found that a tanker containing around 23,000 litres of hydrochloric acid was leaking, and so they set up a safety cordon and started to put environmental measures in place to contain the leaking acid.
Station Manager Phil Griffiths from Redditch explained: "Firefighters in breathing apparatus initially helped to assess the situation and we now have a specialist environmental cleaning company on site working with us to help contain the leak and limit any environmental impact.
"We are currently planning for the chemical to be decanted into a second tanker later today and fire crews will remain at the scene until this has been completed."
He also confirmed that the lorry driver and three members of the public have been assessed by ambulance staff as a precautionary measure after possible exposure to fumes. None of the four had suffered any ill effects.
An estimated 200 litres of acid is believed to have leaked from the tanker.
The motorway services have remained open throughout the incident, and while access to fuel was restricted earlier, this is now operating as normal.
Annual carol service to be held at Pershore Abbey
Monday 6 December, 2010
Members of the public are invited along to Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service's (H&WFRS) annual Friends and Family Christmas carol service.
This year's carol service will be held at Pershore Abbey on Thursday 16 December, starting at 7.30pm.
The service will include music and popular carols as well as readings from Councillor Brigadier Peter Jones CBE as Chair of Hereford & Worcester Fire Authority, the Mayor of Pershore, Councillor Chris Parsons MBE and members of H&WFRS, including some of its Young Firefighters.
Chief Fire Officer Mark Yates said "Pershore Abbey is a splendid setting for this year's carol service and we hope members of the public will join us as we celebrate Christmas with our friends and colleagues. We are delighted that Pershore Abbey Choir and Worcester Cathedral Voluntary Choir will be joining us and feel sure that their talent will enhance the evening."
Refreshments will be available after the service, and all are welcome to attend.
Results of electric blanket testing in Droitwich
Monday 6 December, 2010
Just over a fifth of electric blankets checked at a safety testing session at Droitwich Fire Station recently were found to be defective.
Out of the 23 blankets tested at the event, which was jointly organised by Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) and Age Concern, a total of five failed the safety checks.
Free replacement blankets were offered for those deemed unsafe, while the defective blankets have had their wires and leads removed and have been donated to The Dogs Trust charity at Wickhamford, near Evesham (see photograph).
Becky Valender, Community Safety Advisor at H&WFRS explained: "Thankfully we see very few incidents in the Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service area that can be attributed directly to defective electric blankets, but this may be due to the extensive electric blankets testing programme we operate, with our partners agencies, across the two counties.
"As at previous testing sessions, some of the blankets brought along to Droitwich were in a particularly dangerous condition, and it's reassuring to know that we have taken these potentially life threatening blankets out of circulation."
She encouraged anyone who was not able to get along to this latest testing session to spend a few moments inspecting their electric blanket, looking out for any signs of wear and tear. She recommended that blankets should not be used if they have worn leads or missing connections, any exposed elements, scorch marks or water damage, or any creasing or folding.
The Droitwich electric blanket testing session also generated 11 home fire safety referrals.
MP to visit fire station
Monday 6 December, 2010
Sajid Javid, Member of Parliament for Bromsgrove, will be visiting Bromsgrove fire station later this week to learn more about the work of Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS).
He will be welcomed to the fire station by Chief Fire Officer Mark Yates at 10am on Friday 10 December and will then go on to meet District Commander Keith Chance and Station Manager Steve Fox along with the duty crew and other staff members.
His visit will also include a tour of the station plus a closer look at the fire appliances and range of rescue equipment the Service uses.
CFO Mark Yates said: "We welcome Sajid's interest in the Fire Service and hope to demonstrate to him the wide variety of work we undertake.
"This will include both our fire and rescue work as well as the many community safety projects we are involved in, often in conjunction with other emergency services and our local partners."
Sajid Javid was one of several Members of Parliament from across Herefordshire and Worcestershire who joined CFO Yates at a recent visit to Westminster to discuss H&WFRS's funding with the Fire Minister.
Fire Service rescues cow
Monday 6 December, 2010
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) were called to a farm in Madley in Herefordshire at 9.45am yesterday morning (5 December) to help free a cow with its head stuck in a feeding trough.
The crew from Peterchurch attended and used cutting equipment to release the pedigree Hereford cow from the railings at the side of the trough.
Neil Pigott, District Fire Safety Manager with H&WFRS, explained: "It would seem that the cow, a little too keen to get its breakfast that morning, stuck its head between the metal railings of the feeding trough and then could not get itself free.
"Fortunately the trapped cow was spotted quickly and our firefighters were able to use specialist cutting gear more normally used in road traffic collisions to help release it."
The animal stayed calm throughout its ordeal and was released unharmed by 10.25am.
Dog rescued from River Wye
Monday 6 December, 2010
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) were called to rescue a dog that had fallen through ice on the River Wye in Hereford at the weekend.
The call was received at around 5.10pm on Saturday 4 December after a four-year old Collie, Tally, had slipped off the ice into the river, just downstream of the Old Bridge. The dog had left her owner's side and then walked on to the ice, falling through thinner ice near the edge of the river into the water below.
Rather than attempting to rescue the dog themselves, the owners very sensibly alerted the emergency services for help and advice. Two fire crews plus the water rescue boat from Hereford then attended, managing to pull the dog from the river to safety.
Neil Pigott, District Fire Safety Manager with H&WFRS, explained: "Tally had fallen into the freezing water and became very distressed as she tried to climb back on to the ice, and we arrived to find quite a crowd gathered close by, shouting out encouragement to her. The water rescue crew then used lighting to negotiate their way across the icy river in the dark, where they quickly located the dog and pulled her from the water."
He confirmed that the dog was then taken to the Rowing Club where she was checked by a waiting vet and treated for the effects of hypothermia, as by the time of her rescue, she had been in the water for around 50 minutes and her temperature had fallen considerably.
District Manager Pigott continued: "The owners did exactly the right thing by waiting for emergency services to arrive and we're grateful that no one else had attempted to go onto the ice to attempt to rescue Tally.
"We've been told that following some warm sausages and a good night's sleep, she's made a full recovery but with icy conditions set to continue, we'd urge dog owners to keep their dogs safely on a lead when near the river or any open water."
He added: "Tally's rescue was made in fairly challenging conditions, and proved a useful test of our water rescue skills in readiness for any future rescue situations we might be called to assist with. We would stress however that dogs are much more resilient than people, and it is unlikely that a human would have survived such an ordeal. We would therefore repeat our warnings for people to stay away from frozen water and would urge parents to make every effort to keep children from playing near frozen rivers and lakes."
Flat Fire Rescue
Monday 6 December, 2010
Firefighters rescued a man from a smoke-filled flat in Leominster at the weekend after the occupant attempted to light a fire in a chimney with a sealed flue.
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) were called to the ground floor flat in Mortimer Street just before 6pm on Saturday 4 December after a concerned neighbour noticed smoke issuing from the property and alerted the emergency services.
Two pumps from Leominster and one from Kingsland attended, and firefighters in breathing apparatus went into the flat and rescued the man, who was taken by ambulance to hospital suffering from the effects of smoke inhalation.
The fire, which was contained in the living room area of the flat, was quickly extinguished.
Neil Pigott, District Fire Safety Manager with H&WFRS, said: "We understand that the occupier had attempted to light a fire in the open fire place, unaware that the chimney flue had been sealed, and without a flue to vent the fire, his living room had rapidly filled with smoke.
"Fortunately a neighbour living above the property noticed the smoke and called the Fire Service. Firefighters from Leominster were at the scene within minutes, rescuing the man and putting out the fire.
"Nevertheless, this fire had the potential for tragic consequences and while senior fire officers will be liaising with the housing association who own these flats to prevent any reoccurrence, we also want to highlight this incident to encourage anyone considering lighting a fire for the first time to ensure they do actually have a chimney flue and that the chimney has been recently swept."
Warning to stay off frozen ponds & rivers
Wednesday 1 December, 2010
With icy conditions forecast to continue into next week, Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) are warning people to stay off frozen rivers and ponds for their own safety.
Launa Walker, Community Safety Manager with H&WFRS, warned: "Even with the very cold temperatures we've seen in recent days, the thickness of the ice layer on ponds, lakes, rivers and canals can vary considerably, and is unlikely to be strong enough to hold a person's weight safely.
"We would urge people not to step on to the ice at all, and certainly not to be tempted to skate, as they could easily fall though into the water, or get trapped below the ice, risking hypothermia or even drowning."
She also reminded parents not to leave their children unsupervised near lakes and rivers, and urged them to discuss the dangers of playing near frozen water with their youngsters.
Key safety advice for icy water includes:
- Do not go onto ice-covered lakes, ponds or rivers – it's not safe. (In the event of entering icy water hypothermia can set in very quickly, reducing the ability to get out safely).
- The ice closest to the bank may appear to be thick but it may become thinner in other areas.
- If a dog or another animal falls through the ice, do not go to its rescue. If the ice did not support the animal, it is not likely to take your weight either.
- If you do see a person or animal in difficulty on frozen water, call 999 and direct the Emergency Services to the scene.
This advice will be forwarded to schools across Herefordshire and Worcestershire to help reinforce the safety message.
Fire Service Celebrates Staff Successes
Wednesday 1 December, 2010
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) celebrated the achievements of nearly 50 members of staff at a Celebration of Success event held at the Guildhall in Worcester last night (Tuesday 30 November).
Neil Pigott, Station Manager with H&WFRS, acted as Master of Ceremonies for the evening, while Chief Fire Officer Mark Yates, along with Councillor Brigadier Peter Jones CBE, Chairman of Hereford & Worcester Fire Authority, presented each staff member with a framed certificate to recognise their individual achievement.
The first certificate was presented by Councillor Brigadier Peter Jones CBE to Emma Faulkner, IT Technician at H&WFRS Headquarters, for her outstanding degree success, having achieved a BSc with Honours in Computing (First Class).
Two other members of staff from Service Headquarters also achieved excellent degree success but were not able to attend the ceremony. This included Sarah Hemming, Equality and Diversity Officer, who achieved a BSc with Honours in Management (First Class) and Laura Robinson, Personnel & Employee Resources Co-ordinator, who achieved a MA in Human Resource Management (Distinction).
Eighteen firefighters were also presented with certificates for successfully completing their Trainee Firefighter Programme (see below for more details of this programme).
This included Firefighters Alan Berrow (Malvern), Danielle Chinn (Evesham), Craig Cummings (Ledbury), Daniel Gray (Ross-on-Wye), Robert Jones (Eardisley), William Jope (Peterchurch), David Knapper (Ross-on-Wye), Michael Lee (Evesham & Pebworth), Simon Leroux (Redditch), Kevin Maguire (Pershore), Nicholas Pinfield (Worcester), Martin Poole (Droitwich), Matthew Ripley (Ross-on-Wye), Nicholas Sims (Evesham), Craig Smith (Pebworth), Mark Taylor (Leominster), Antony Wilson (Pershore) and John Wilkins (Bewdley).
Firefighter Daniel Schofield-Shaw (Worcester) also completed the Trainee Firefighter Programme recently but was not able to attend last night's ceremony.
CFO Yates also presented certificates to 11 Firefighters who have completed their Firefighter Development Programme - NVQ Level 3 (see below for more details of this programme).
This included Firefighters Gary Beresford (Evesham), Mark Deakin (Bromsgrove), Brett Johnson (Worcester), Debbie Lawley (Stourport), Christopher O'Connell (Bromsgrove), Lee Peplow (Bromyard), Dean Reilly (Bromsgrove), Matthew Richardson (Ross-on-Wye), Lee Rudge (Bromsgrove), Matthew Watson (Bromsgrove) and Andrew James (Ross-on-Wye).
Firefighters Wayne Bennett (Stourport), Richard Calcutt (Broadway) and Nicholas Docker (Upton) also completed the Firefighter Development Programme recently but were not able to attend last night's ceremony.
Certificates were also presented to Watch Manager Kevin Giles (Service HQ & Peterchurch), for completing his Watch Manager Programme – NVQ Level 3 (see below for more details of this programme), and Julie Bray, Personal Assistant (Service HQ) for completing NVQ Level 3 in Business Administration.
Denice Bennell, Corporate Risk Administrator at Service HQ, also completed her NVQ Level 3 in Business Administration recently but was not able to attend the event last night.
CFO Yates presented three further members of staff based at Service HQ with certificates for their achievements during the Celebration of Success event.
This included Gail Carrier, Health & Safety Advisor, for achieving the Advanced Certificate in Investigative Practice; Bethan Groom, Data Management Compliance Administrator, for achieving the Informations Systems Examinations Board (ISEB) Certificate in Data Protection, and also Emma Birch, Assessment & Development Manager, for achieving a Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership.
Four members of staff were also presented certificates by CFO Yates for achieving their A1 Assessors Award (see below for more details on this award).
This included Firefighter Tristan Lockyer (Broadway), Crew Manager Paul Lane (Peterchurch), Watch Manager Bob Sproat (Bromsgrove) and also Watch Manager Neville Turner (Bromyard).
The final three certificates to be presented during the Celebration of Success evening were awarded to those successfully completing Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) programmes.
This included Watch Manager Kevin Giles (Service HQ & Peterchurch) for achieving the ILM Level 3 Award in Supervisory Management; Watch Manager Craig Newman (Droitwich) for achieving the ILM Level 3 Award in First Line Management and also Crew Manager Phill Sanders (Bromsgrove) for achieving the ILM Supervisory Programme Phase 1.
Watch Manager Len Rees (Service HQ) also completed his A1 Assessors Award and his ILM Level 3 Award in First Line Management recently but was unable to attend the ceremony.
Chief Fire Officer Mark Yates said: "This is the third Celebration of Success event we've held and this year's programme was a particularly full one, with a range of personal and professional achievements being recognised.
"We are extremely proud of our staff and their commitment to learning and self-improvement, and it's only right that we celebrate their success in this way. The Service can only be enhanced by having such people as part of the team.
"Each degree, each award and each training programme completed represents a great deal of hard work, commitment and often time away from the family, and it's fantastic that so many family members, whose contribution often goes unrecognised, were able to come along and join us as we celebrated the many and varied achievements."