News Headlines... November 2011
To go straight to any of November's news click on the links below.
Fuel Spill Following RTC | Use Candles With Care | Horse Rescued from Pool | Book Your Chimney Sweep | Firefighter Rugby Cup | Redditch Car Fire | Fire in Cavity Wall | Garden Centre Fire | Burnt Room Scene | Chip Shop Fire | Christmas Light Warning | Hereford Cathedral Exercise | Tumble Drier Fire | Road Safety Week | Worcester Flat Rescue | Malvern Flat Fire | Canal Boat Fire | Man Rescued from Home | Electric Blanket Testing in Worcester | Electrical Safety Promoted | Sheep Rescue | RTC in Bewdley | On-Call Firefighters Needed in Herefordshire | Hair Straighteners Warning Following Fire | Smallwood Partnership Event | Barn Fire Investigated | Hereford Restaurant Incident | M5 Lorry Fire | Candle Fire Safety | Smoke Alarm Alerts Owner | Road Safety Advice | Hospital Alarm | Smoke Alarm Statement | Firefighters visit Hereford United | Tractor Driver Escapes Injury | Water Rescue | Family Escape | Commercial Premises Fire | Lucky Escape for Elderly Couple | Collision in Welland | Electric Blanket Testing | Chimney Fires - Safety Advice | Evesham Exercise | YFA Open Evening | Eardisley House Fire | Hereford United | Consultation Ending | Bonfire Night Advice | Kington House Fire
Fuel Spill in Bromyard Following RTC
Tuesday 29 November
Fire crews were called to Old Road in Bromyard earlier today (Tuesday 29 November) to assist with a fuel leak following a road traffic collision.
The collision, involving a milk tanker and a trailer, took place at around 9.20am and an estimated 100 litres of diesel is thought to have leaked from the damaged tanker onto the road surface and into nearby drains.
Fire crews from Bromyard and Leominster, and H&WFRS's Environmental Protection Unit from Stourport attended the incident, along with the police and the Environment Agency.
No one was hurt during the collision and the 35,000 litres of milk contained in the tanker remained intact.
Station Commander Bob Sproat from H&WFRS said: "As we arrived at the scene, we could see that diesel had already leaked from the tanker's ruptured fuel tank into the drainage system, and so we immediately set to work to prevent any further spread."
He explained that crews placed absorbent booms from their Environmental Protection Unit into the storm drains and then worked collaboratively with colleagues from the Environment Agency to deploy a further eight booms to contain a small amount of diesel that had reached the river.
Use Candles With Care
Tuesday 29 November
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service is urging people to use candles with care over the festive period.
Caroline Webster, Community Safety Advisor with H&WFRS, explained: "There's a whole range of candles on offer in the shops at this time of the year – all shapes and sizes, from tea lights to scented candles, and even advent candles designed to be lit daily to count down the days until Christmas.
"Whether you are using candles to add a warm seasonal look to a room, as part of your table decorations when entertaining or to fragrance your home, always use them with care to avoid any risk of a fire."
She reminded people to ensure their candles are placed in suitable holders, that they are never placed near flammable materials like curtains or table napkins, and that candles are never left burning unattended. Be especially vigilant if you have young children and always double check that candles are properly extinguished before leaving a room or going to bed at night.
She added: "This is common-sense advice but we hope people will bear it in mind if using candles in their home this Christmas."
She also reminded householders that a torch is always a safer option than a candle in the event of a power cut, particularly a head torch which leaves your hands free.
She said: "We'd recommend that everyone keeps a head torch to hand in case of a power cut – these are widely available in many High Street and DIY stores, and would make a great Christmas present for anyone who doesn't already have one!"
Show-jumping horse rescued from pool
Monday 28 November
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) was called to a garden in Hanbury, near Droitwich, at around 11.20am this morning (Monday 28 November) to help rescue a horse from a disused swimming pool.
The horse's owner had called the Fire Service after finding her horse in the water, with no way of getting out of the steep-sided pool by itself.
Rescue crews from Droitwich and Bromsgrove were sent to the address along with the Water First Responder team from Kidderminster, and on arrival, they found the horse in around a metre and a half of water in the outdoor swimming pool. Crews pumped out an estimated 25,000 litres of water from the disused pool into a nearby field to reduce the water level, and then Water First Responders went into the water where they carefully positioned bales of straw to create makeshift steps so that the horse could be led out of the pool to safety.
Watch Commander Craig Newman from H&WFRS explained: "The horse, a fully grown gelding called Louis, is a showjumper and while it's hard to say exactly how the horse came to be in the pool, it had obviously been there for some time and was starting to shiver from the effects of the cold water. While we quickly set to work pumping out the water, the owner was offering the horse reassurance, and we soon had the animal safely out of the swimming pool and back in its usual field, seemingly unharmed by its ordeal."
He confirmed that the horse was out of the pool by 12.55pm and that it was taken back to its field in a trailer once it had been checked by the RSPCA, who also attended the incident.
Book now to get your chimney swept!
Monday 28 November
A fire caused by a blocked chimney flue has prompted Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) to re-issue its chimney safety advice.
Fire crews were alerted to the incident at around 12.15am on Saturday morning (26 November) and two fire engines from Bromyard were sent to the address, located just off the A4103 near Castle Frome.
Crews used two hose reels, chimney rods and working at height gear to tackle the fire in the woodburner, bringing it under control by 1.35am.
Station Commander Neil Lilwall from H&WFRS said: "Firefighters removed the flue from the woodburner and found a large amount of debris inside it which undoubtedly will have contributed to the outbreak of fire.
"Fortunately the fire was contained in the flue on this occasion, but chimney fires have the potential to cause widespread damage and so we want people to be aware that this has happened and to take preventative action themselves if they have a real fire or woodburner in their home."
He explained that most chimney fires can be avoided simply by having chimneys swept regularly and burning only the correct fuels for the particular type of fire.
He added: "Don't take chances. Book an appointment now to have your chimney swept if you haven't done so already this winter, and also make sure you have a working smoke alarm fitted on every floor of your home."
A list of approved chimney sweeps operating in the local area and further advice on chimney safety is available under the 'Your Safety' heading.
Local Firefighters make bid for Rugby Cup
Friday 25 November
Rugby fans are being invited to attend a match next week which will see firefighters from Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (HWFRS) take on their colleagues from Northamptonshire.
The event, which is the first of its kind for HWFRS, is for the Fire Service Sports and Athletics Association Rugby Union UK Cup. It will take place at Droitwich RFC on Hanbury Road, Droitwich and gates will open at 7pm, on Wednesday 30 November.
HWFRS' team manager Dan Quinn, who is also Station Commander at Droitwich Fire Station, said: "We are really looking forward to the match and we hope to do our Service and the local community proud. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Droitwich RFC for providing the facilities for the match. This is the first time our team has competed nationally so it's a big sporting event for us.
"We would love to see lots of people at the ground and would welcome plenty of support because this could be a tough match!"
Car fire in Redditch
Friday 25 November
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (HWFRS) was called shortly after 7.00pm to reports of a fire in Cherrington Close, Redditch, Worcestershire yesterday (Thursday 24 November).
Two crews from Redditch quickly attended the scene to find a fire in the engine compartment of a family car parked on the driveway adjacent to a garage and semi-detached house. Firefighters used breathing apparatus and 2x hose reels to bring the fire under control preventing further spread to nearby property and trees.
Group Commander Mick Cadman said: "The fire started in the engine compartment and escalated quickly, causing moderate damage to the garage and its contents. Fortunately firefighters worked swiftly to confine the spread of fire – so the house and nearby trees suffered only minor damage. Whilst firefighters tackled the blaze, a neighbour ensured the wellbeing of the property owner.
"I would like to congratulate the crews who attended this incident – their prompt and efficient actions undoubtedly prevented substantial damage to the house and its contents."
Group Commander Cadman advised residents that fire safety advice is available here on our 'Your Safety' pages.
The cause of the fire is believed to be an electrical fault in the vehicle.
Fire in Cavity Wall
Wednesday 23 November
Firefighters from Redditch were called to Dolben Lane in Winyates West at 11.05pm last night (Tuesday 22 November) after a fire broke out in a cavity wall between two terraced houses.
Two fire engines from Redditch fire station were at the address within minutes, and with the occupants of both of the properties involved safely evacuated, firefighters used a hose reel jet, bringing the fire under control in around an hour. Crews also used thermal imaging equipment to ensure the fire was fully extinguished and called back later in the morning to re-inspect the properties as a precautionary measure.
Watch Commander Stuart Crebbin said: "This was an unusual incident. Contractors had been working on the roof of a porch at the front of one of the properties during the day and while the householders had noticed a smell of burning, they had assumed it was from the work the builders were doing outside. Later in the evening, however, a bathroom at one the houses filled with smoke and they realised that there was actually a fire."
He explained that the origin of the fire was difficult to pinpoint and that firefighters had to remove the bath panel and chisel away a section of the concrete cladding on the wall before they were able to establish that the fire was in the expansion gap between the two properties.
The fibreboard in the cavity wall is believed to have been ignited inadvertently as the bitumen on the porch roof was heat-sealed earlier in the day.
Watch Commander Crebbin continued: "Thankfully no one was injured as a result of this incident and damage was limited to the fibreboard and the concrete cladding. It was certainly fortunate that the cavity between the two houses wasn't any deeper as the fire could easily have spread further. "
He advised anyone noticing smoke or smelling burning to call the fire service immediately, as any delay can be critical, and he also urged people to ensure they have smoke alarms fitted on every floor of their homes and to remember to test them on a weekly basis.
Fire at Garden Centre
Wednesday 23 November
Crews were called to a fire at a garden centre in Birmingham Road, Kidderminster at around 6.50am this morning (Wednesday 23 November).
The fire had broken out in the roof space of the garden centre café and was discovered by the owners of the business as they arrived to open up.
Two fire engines from Kidderminster and one from Bewdley were quickly at the scene, and firefighters in breathing apparatus went into the café area and used one hose reel jet to extinguish the fire.
Positive pressure ventilation equipment was then used to clear smoke from the building.
No one was injured and the stop message was given at 7.45am.
Confirming that the cause of the fire was electrical, Watch Commander Adrian Farmer from Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) said: "It was extremely fortunate that the fire was discovered when it was. There was heavy smoke logging throughout the premises and damage to around five square metres of roof space in the corner of the café, but it could easily have been far worse."
He urged everyone to ensure they have smoke alarms fitted in their premises and to test them regularly.
'Burnt room' highlights chimney safety message
Tuesday 22 November
The Fire Service will be transforming an empty shop unit in Ross-on-Wye to look like a burnt living room this week in a bid to highlight the devastating consequences of a chimney fire.
The Burnt Room scene will be set up in a unit in The Maltings from Wednesday 23 November until Sunday 27 November, and will include walls and furnishings burnt and smoke damaged as a result of a chimney fire.
Pete Hope, Community Safety Advisor with Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS), explained: "Chimney fire safety is always an important part of our Winter Safety Campaign and we want to show people just how far-reaching the effects of a chimney fire can be.
"We've found that the burnt room set illustrates this very well and we hope that shoppers will stop by and take a closer look.
"Of course, we're not looking to alarm people, but rather to remind them that most chimney fires can be prevented, simply by ensuring that chimneys are swept on a regular basis."
He urged all those with open fires or woodburners to make an appointment now to have their chimney swept if they have done so already this winter, and to visit www.hwfire.org.uk under the 'Your Safety' heading for a list of approved chimney sweeps operating locally.
Members of H&WFRS's Community Safety Team will also be on hand in The Maltings during the five days of the burnt room initiative to offer further chimney safety advice and answer any safety queries regarding open fires and woodburners.
Chip shop fire
Tuesday 22 November
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) was called to a fire at a fish and chip shop in Rednal, near Bromsgrove, at 9.50am yesterday morning (Monday 21 November).
Two fire crews from Bromsgrove and one from Kings Norton (West Midlands) attended, and on arrival, found a fire in one of the fryers at the Lickey Road shop.
Firefighters in breathing apparatus went into the premises and used a hose reel, two carbon dioxide (CO2) extinguishers and one dry powder extinguisher to bring the fire under control. Crews then used positive pressure ventilation equipment to clear smoke from the premises, and the stop message was given just before 12 midday.
Watch Commander Darren Packwood, who had just started his first shift with Bromsgrove White Watch as the call came in, explained: "Everyone was safely out of the premises as we arrived at the fish and chip shop, and although we were able to bring the fire under control fairly quickly, there was significant heat damage to the shop as well as smoke logging in the flat above."
Christmas light warning
Monday 21 November
With the Christmas season fast approaching, Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) is issuing an early reminder on the safe use of lights, both for indoor and outdoor use.
Pete Hope, Community Safety Advisor with H&WFRS, explained: "We know that many people will be turning their thoughts to Christmas as the first day of December draws near, and we want to make sure that safety is high on their agenda as they unpack their lights and decorations from last year or plan to buy some new ones.
"In recent years we've seen a dramatic rise in the number of people using lights to decorate the outside of their homes and gardens for Christmas, and we want to make sure they are not putting themselves, their families or their homes at risk by doing so."
He urged everyone to be vigilant and follow some basic safety guidelines when using fairy lights and other illuminated decorations over the festive period:
- Check Christmas lights conform to British Standards guidelines or have the European 'CE' safety mark.
- Check each set of lights, old or new, for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wire,
or any loose connections. Throw out all damaged sets. - Always ensure the lights are switched off (by removing the plug from the mains) before inserting or removing bulbs, and use only the correct bulb for that particular set of lights.
- Always use an RCD on outdoor electrical equipment (RCD is a residual current device designed to protect against electrocution by instantly switching off the power).
- Take care not to overload electrical sockets.
- Do not let the bulbs come into contact with anything that might burn easily (such as
wrapping paper). - Only use lights designed for external use outside.
- Fasten outdoor lights securely to trees, walls and fences, out of reach of young children.
- Always turn off Christmas lights when you leave the house or go to bed at night.
He also urged everyone to double check that their smoke alarms are working as they put up their Christmas lights.
Training exercise at Hereford Cathedral
Monday 21 November
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) say that a training exercise held at Hereford Cathedral last week proved extremely worthwhile.
The exercise was held between 10am and 1pm on Wednesday 16 November at Hereford Cathedral, off Cathedral Close in the heart of Hereford city centre, and involved two fire engines and the Aerial Ladder Platform from Hereford fire station.
The exercise simulated a serious fire at the cathedral and aimed to test both the preventative measures and the operational response to a serious incident at the heritage building. In particular, H&WFRS wanted to test its procedures for supplementing water from the River Wye in the event of a major fire at the cathedral and to work out the best siting arrangements for its aerial ladder platform following the changes to the layout of Cathedral Close.
Station Commander Sean Bailey from H&WFRS explained: "Exercises of this kind are an invaluable part of our training, helping us to ensure that preventative measures are in place and that our operational response to a major incident at a building like Hereford Cathedral takes into account its cultural significance and its importance to the local community.
"Wednesday's exercise allowed us to test our procedures for sourcing water directly from the River Wye and relaying it efficiently to the cathedral site to ensure adequate water supplies for firefighting in the event of a serious fire, and we also used the aerial ladder platform to good effect to provide an aerial view of the site and for firefighting at height.
"Passers-by were certainly very interested to see our firefighters in action at the cathedral and we hope they will be reassured to learn just how successful the exercise was. It will help us refine our major incident planning for the cathedral itself and also at other sites across the two counties located near open water or involving buildings of heritage importance. "
He said that the Fire Service works very closely with the cathedral authorities in Hereford and he thanked them for their cooperation with this latest exercise.
Tumble drier fire
Monday 21 November
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) was called to reports of a fire at a pub in Lulsley in Worcestershire at around 6.45pm yesterday evening (Sunday 20 November).
One fire engine from Bromyard and two from Worcester attended and on arrival, crews found a fire in the laundry room on the ground floor, and all occupants safely evacuated from the premises. Four firefighters in breathing apparatus helped tackle the fire, bringing it under control with one hose reel and one covering jet used. Crews also isolated electrics and used a thermal imaging camera to check the rest of the property.
Station Commander Mark Strutt from H&WFRS said: "The fire had broken out in a tumble drier in the laundry room at the back of the pub, just near the kitchen. While there was significant damage to the laundry room itself, the swift intervention of fire crews prevented further spread to the rest of the pub."
The fire was under control by 8.20pm with no one injured during the incident.
Fire Service supporting National Road Safety Week (21 – 27 November, 2011)
Friday 18 November
Ever keen to promote road safety across the two counties, Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) is lending its support to this year's National Road Safety Week which starts on Monday (21 November).
The initiative, promoted locally by the Safer Roads Partnership and West Mercia Police, aims to highlight the number of young people killed or seriously injured in road traffic collisions every year and to promote safer habits amongst this group and all road users as winter approaches.
Road traffic collisions account for a significant number of the total incidents that Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service attends each year and so road safety is always a key priority for the Service.
Gill Pinder, Education Liaison Officer with H&WFRS, said: "People may be surprised to learn that last year our crews attended almost 55 per cent more road traffic collisions than it did house fires.
"We tend to get called to the more serious collisions, where the vehicles have caught fire or the occupants are trapped, and naturally we are keen to do all that we can to encourage people to drive more safely.
"We work with the Safer Roads Partnership and other partner agencies throughout the year to raise awareness with young drivers in particular, and road safety is also an important part of our Winter Safety Campaign and we will continue to encourage road users across Herefordshire and Worcestershire to take extra care as the weather worsens."
Further road safety advice is available at www.hwfire.org.uk on the Road Safety page.
Flat rescue
Friday 18 November
Firefighters say that a man was lucky to escape serious injury or worse following a fire at his flat in Worcester earlier this week.
Two fire engines from Worcester were sent to the Grenville Road flat after Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) was alerted to the incident shortly after 3pm on Wednesday afternoon (16 November).
On arrival, they found that the male occupant of the flat had been safely evacuated and was being treated by ambulance staff for the effects of smoke inhalation.
Watch Commander Dave Smith from H&WFRS explained: "We understand that a member of the public and a passing police officer had gone into the flat to investigate after noticing smoke coming from the property. Inside, they found the sofa alight and the occupant unable to make his own way out of the smoke filled living room. Together, they were able to help the man outside to safety where he was given medical attention."
The occupant, the police officer, the passer-by and a neighbour were then taken to hospital for the effects of smoke inhalation, while fire crews ensured that the fire was fully extinguished. They also checked smoke alarms at the flat and visited neighbouring properties to offer home fire safety advice.
Watch Commander Smith continued: "This incident could easily have had far more serious consequences. The fire involved an older style foam-filled sofa that did not conform to British Standards for domestic furniture and the smoke it gave off was dense and highly toxic.
"Those involved in the rescue undoubtedly saved the man's life."
He reminded people that all upholstered furniture sold in the UK since 1988 has to conform to strict fire safety guidelines and he urged everyone to check their own sofas and armchairs comply. They should have a permanent CARELESSNESS CAUSES FIRE label attached.
Fire in first floor flat
Friday 18 November
Fire crews were called to a small fire at a flat in Moat Crescent in Malvern at around 9.45pm last night (Thursday 17 November).
Two fire engines from Malvern attended and firefighters in breathing apparatus led a male occupant from the first floor flat to safety. He was checked at the scene for the effects of smoke inhalation but was otherwise unharmed.
The fire was extinguished with the use of a hose reel while positive pressure ventilation equipment was used to clear smoke logging.
Damage to the property was minimal and fire officers are working with the police to establish exactly how the fire started.
Canal boat fire
Friday 18 November
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service was called to a fire on a derelict work boat on the canal in Kidderminster in the early hours of this morning (Friday 18 November).
Crews were alerted to the fire at around 12.25am and two fire engines from Kidderminster were sent to the scene. They found a small narrow boat (approximately 6m x 1m) on fire just near to Caldwell Lock, off the Stourport Road.
Watch Commander Gareth Clarke explained: "We had two calls reporting the fire, one from police officers in Whitehouse Road and the second from a resident in Larches Road in the opposite direction, and it was quite a challenge locating the incident and getting the equipment to the scene."
He explained that with access restricted, crews had to carry a portable pump some distance along the towpath and then used a main jet from the pump to start tackling the fire.
He continued: "A gas cylinder on the boat presented an extra risk and firefighters had to use the cover of the nearby bridge to offer extra protection as they attacked the fire and cooled the cylinder."
The fire was under control in less than an hour, with the boat and the cylinder submerged below the water.
British Waterways and the Environment Agency have been made aware of the incident.
Man rescued from his home
Thursday 17 November
Firefighters rescued a man from his smoke-filled home in Kidderminster in the early hours of this morning (Thursday 17 November).
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service was called to the incident at around 1.55am following reports of a fire at a bungalow in Hereford Close, with a person still inside the property.
Two fire crews from Kidderminster and one from Bewdley were quickly at the address, and two firefighters in breathing apparatus went into the bungalow, rescuing the male occupant inside. He was suffering from the effects of smoke inhalation and so fire crews gave him oxygen therapy until paramedics arrived at the scene.
The fire was brought under control by 2.30am with the use of one hose reel jet, and positive pressure ventilation equipment was then used to help clear the smoke from the property.
The fire was caused by a pan left unattended on the hob, resulting in damage to the cooker and smoke damage throughout the rest of the bungalow.
Watch Commander Rod Maiden from H&WFRS said: "This incident had the potential for far worse consequences, particularly as there wasn't a working smoke alarm in the property. Fortunately the fire was noticed before it spread any further but we want people to be aware that this has happened and to be extra vigilant themselves when cooking.
"Never leave your cooking unattended and make sure you switch off the cooker after use."
He also stressed the importance of having a working smoke alarm in the home to give an early alert in the event of a fire.
Electric Blanket Testing in Worcester
Tuesday 15 November
Electric blanket users living in or near Worcester can take their blankets along to a FREE safety testing session in the city next week.
The safety testing session, a joint initiative between Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service and Age UK, will take place on Monday 21 November at the Age UK shop in Mealcheapen Street, Worcester between 10am and 1pm.
Those taking along their electric blankets to be tested can also get advice on a range of services for older people, as well as on all aspects of fire safety, particularly the importance of having working smoke alarms in the home.
During the session, H&WFRS will be offering free replacements for any blankets found to be defective, one per household subject to availability.
Becky Valender, Community Safety Advisor with H&WFRS, said: "We'd urge all electric blanket users to come along to this free testing session to ensure their blankets are safe to use."
Explaining that a significant number of the blankets tested so far this autumn have failed the safety checks, she encouraged anyone unable to make the session to take a few moments to inspect their own blankets, discontinuing use if any signs of wear and tear, particularly any worn leads, scorch marks or creasing and folding, are noticed.
To book your FREE blanket test at Age UK Worcester, please make an appointment by calling 01684 572948 or drop by on the day if you are prepared to wait / collect later.
Electrical Safety Promoted
Tuesday 15 November
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service is issuing electrical safety advice as part of its Winter Safety Campaign.
Pete Hope, Community Safety Advisor with H&WFRS, explained: "Electricity is often overlooked as a possible fire hazard but this is something we want to highlight as part of our Winter Safety Campaign, particularly with Christmas approaching.
"Many electrical fires in the home can be avoided simply by taking extra care with how electrical appliances are used and stored. We'd urge everyone to read through our top safety tips below to ensure they are doing all that they can to keep their homes and family safe."
Advice from H&WFRS includes:
• Avoid overloading electrical sockets.
• Always unplug appliances after use.
• Do not use electrical appliances near water - cables and plugs should never be in danger of getting wet.
• Make sure your electrical appliances do not pre-date the EU safety standards. If you are unsure, get them checked by a qualified electrician.
• Discontinue use of any appliances with loose wires or frayed leads, with hot or scorched plugs and sockets, or where fuses blow frequently or lights flicker. These can all be signs that the appliance is dangerous to use so have it checked by an electrician or replace it.
Further advice is available by clicking here...
Sheep Rescue
Tuesday 15 November
Rescue crews from Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service were called to the River Severn near Ferry Lane in Uckinghall yesterday afternoon (Monday 14 November) to help with a sheep in distress in the water.
The call for assistance from the RSPCA was received at around 1.20pm and a fire appliance from Pershore and the rescue boat from Evesham attended.
Crews then used Swift Water Rescue equipment to enter the water, bringing the animal to safety by 2.10pm.
The large male sheep was left in the hands of the RSPCA, none the worse for its ordeal.
RTC in Bewdley
Tuesday 15 November
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service was called to assist at a road traffic collision in Bewdley at 5pm yesterday afternoon (Monday 14 November).
Fire crews from Bewdley and Kidderminster attended the incident which involved two vehicles in collision along Dowles Road. With casualties trapped inside both cars, firefighters used hydraulic cutting equipment to remove the doors from the vehicles to reach them. The two casualties were then taken by land ambulance to hospital along with a third person, also involved in the collision.
Police and the ambulance service also attended the incident, and the stop message was given at 5.50pm once the vehicles involved had been made safe.
On Call Fire Fighters Needed In Herefordshire
Tuesday 15 November
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service is seeking to recruit additional on call firefighters on the retained duty system at a number of Fire Stations across North-West Herefordshire which include:
• Eardisley
• Kington
• Leintwardine
• Leominster
The job requires individuals to live or work within five minutes of the fire station and all recruits must be 18 or over (at the date of joining).
Station Commander Bob Sproat said: "The role can suit men and women from a wide range of backgrounds. On call firefighters are fully trained and gain knowledge and skills in areas such as accident prevention and first aid that can be of real benefit at home or in the workplace.
"The role of on call firefighter is challenging and extremely rewarding and these men and women provide a vital service for their local communities – saving lives at the scene of road traffic collisions and preventing the spread of fire in homes and businesses."
Station Commander Sproat went on to remind business managers about the benefits of employing on-call firefighters with the skills and disciplines they bring back into their primary workplace and how favourably businesses that help their communities are viewed by the wider society.
Trainee firefighters receive an annual retainer of £2,116 plus extra pay for attending call outs, and when fully trained can earn up to £8,000 a year (subject to call-outs). The Service is looking to recruit people who can work as part of a team and have compassion, sensitivity, discretion and diplomacy in the role of firefighter.
Anyone interested in finding out more about becoming an on-call firefighter in NW Herefordshire is urged to attend an awareness session which is taking place at Leominster Fire Station, Broad Street, Leominster, HR6 8DD at 6.30pm on Monday, November 21, 2011. To book your place call 01905 368 343 or find out more about on call firefighters click here.....
Hair Straighteners Warning Following Fire
Monday 14 November
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) is issuing advice on the safe use of hair straighteners following a fire at a house in School Road in Leominster yesterday morning (Sunday 13 November).
Two fire crews from Leominster were called to the address following a call at 10.40am reporting smoke in the property. On arrival they found a fire in a first floor bedroom that they extinguished with one hose reel jet and two firefighters in breathing apparatus.
Watch Commander Martin Greenhouse from H&WFRS explained: "Leominster firefighters were at Leominster Priory Church ready for Sunday morning's Remembrance Service when our pagers went off. We quickly headed to the house in School Road where we found a fire in a first floor bedroom, involving some electric hair straighteners."
He explained that the woman had left the straighteners switched on, on top of a lightweight plastic washing basket. This had caught fire, spreading to the clothes inside it, the carpet and the wooden floorboards beneath.
The woman was checked by ambulance staff at the scene for the effects of smoke inhalation.
He continued: "This fire had the potential to be very serious indeed. Thankfully a smoke alarm at the property activated and the occupants smelt smoke and called the fire service. Fire crews were quickly at the scene and were able to stop the blaze spreading any further."
He urged anyone using hair straighteners to note the following safety advice:
• Only turn on straighteners immediately prior to use and be sure to switch them off directly afterwards
• Place them on a hard, heat-resistant, non-flammable surface or on a mat specially designed for the purpose
• Keep them away from children
• Never put straighteners down on bedding or carpets after use
• Be aware that they reach very high temperatures (180ºC or more) and so will take time to cool properly
• Do not use hair straighteners in the bathroom, not even if they are plugged in outside the room
Watch Commander Greenhouse ended: "The fire in the bedroom was out and the property ventilated by 11.20am, and we were able to return to the Remembrance Service, albeit in fire kit, to lay a wreath on behalf of Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service as planned."
Partnership event in Smallwood, Redditch
Monday 14 November
Partner agencies in Redditch will be joining forces next week to bring a range of services out to the local community, this time in the Smallwood area of the town.
The initiative, organised by the Redditch Community Safety Partnership, has targeted different areas of the town since its launch earlier this year, and on Friday and Saturday next week (25 – 26 November), representatives from the agencies involved will be calling by at several roads in the Smallwood area to highlight the services on offer and how they can be accessed. This will include homes in Millsborough Road, Lodge Road, Marsden Road, Glover Street and Mount Street.
The B&Q store in Jinnah Road has offered its support to the initiative, providing the use of its café during the two days of the campaign, and Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) will be parking its Community Safety trailer on the car park in front of the café to be used as a central base. Fire officers, police officers plus representatives from several departments at Redditch Borough Council, including Housing and the Anti Social Behaviour Team, will then call on residents in the five streets with a questionnaire to record which services they might be interested in. Age Concern from Redditch, I-Camp, and Act on Energy will also form part of the team, while representatives from The Princes Trust and the Young Firefighters Association (YFA) will also be participating.
A letter, in both English and Urdu, will be circulated to all households in advance of the initiative, advising people which agencies are involved and what services they provide. Posters and literature from each partner agency will also be available from the B&Q café during the event.
For its part, H&WFRS will be promoting fire safety during the two-day campaign and will be offering free home fire safety referrals and smoke alarm checks. West Mercia Police will be offering a range of crime prevention advice, including information on home and vehicle safety, while the council will be encouraging people to report any repairs needed or other issues regarding council-managed services. Age Concern, meanwhile, will highlight a range of services available to older people while Act on Energy will be offering householders advice on how to heat their homes more efficiently.
There will also be a walkabout to identify any areas in need of a clean-up by volunteers from The Prince's Trust and the YFA, who are keen to help with litter picking, waste removal and clearing overgrown vegetation.
Station Commander Phil Griffiths, based at Redditch Fire Station, explained: "The Community Action Days held in Church Hill and Winyates earlier in the year proved extremely effective, and we hope that the two-day campaign in Smallwood will be just as well-received by local residents. We want to make them aware of the range of services offered by each partner agency and to make it easy for everyone to access these services, with the confidence that any concerns they raise will be listened to and acted upon."
He said that the Fire Service will be promoting its home fire safety checks, where someone from the Community Safety Team visits on a day convenient to the householder to look at reducing fire risk in the home, to include the installation of smoke alarms as needed.
Community Support Officer Jennifer Evans from West Mercia Police, added: "We see this as an opportunity to meet local people face-to-face to offer reassurance and practical help for any concerns they might have. We will also be offering advice on what people can do to keep their homes and their vehicles safe."
Chair of the Redditch Community Safety Partnership, Sue Hanley, said: "These actions days have proved extremely successful in Redditch, giving people the chance to talk to staff from a number of different organisations and get helpful advice.
"I hope people in Smallwood will take the opportunity to find out more about the services our partners offer and what help is available."
The Community Action Days will take place between 12 midday and 4pm on Friday 25 and Saturday 26 November in Millsborough Road, Lodge Road, Marsden Road, Glover Street and Mount Street.
Barn fire investigated
Monday 14 November
A fire at a barn off the Stourport Road in Stourport-on-Severn at the weekend is being investigated by police and fire officers.
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) was alerted to the incident just before 7am yesterday morning (Sunday 13 November) and crews from Kidderminster and Stourport attended, finding a 20m x 10m single storey barn and the hay stored inside it on fire.
Firefighters led 10 cows from the barn to safety in a nearby field and then attacked the fire using two hose reel jets and water from the canal. The fire was brought under control by around 9.45am, although turning over and damping down continued after this with assistance from the landowner and his farm vehicle.
Station Commander Adrian Moore from H&WFRS said: "Around 10 tonnes of hay and five tonnes of logs were destroyed during this incident and the roof of the barn was also fire damaged.
"We believe the fire was started deliberately and we're working with the police to investigate the circumstances."
Business as usual following fire incident at Hereford restaurant
Monday 14 November
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) say that a bar and restaurant in Hereford was able to open for business as usual on Saturday night thanks to the good fire prevention system at the premises.
Firefighters were called to Saxtys bar and restaurant in Widemarch Street at 3.55pm on Saturday afternoon (12 November) following reports of smoke in the cellar. Three fire appliances from Hereford attended, and four firefighters in breathing apparatus equipped with two hose reels went into the smoke-filled basement to investigate.
The stop message was given at around 5.50pm, with the cause of the smoke-logging believed to be from a fire in a piece of electrical equipment in the cellar.
Once the premises had been ventilated and checks had completed by an electrical engineer, the business was able to open as usual on Saturday evening.
Station Commander Sean Bailey from H&WFRS said: "This incident illustrates just what a difference a good fire prevention system can make to business continuity.
"Staff at the restaurant heard the smoke alarm activate and they were able to evacuate safely and call for assistance. The early intervention from the Fire Service and the good quality fire doors helped prevent the smoke from spreading to other parts of the building, and the restaurant was able to operate as normal on Saturday night.
He added: "Businesses have to ensure they comply with fire safety regulations and the measures they put in place as part of this undoubtedly pay for themselves in the event of fire, as Saturday's incident in Hereford shows so effectively."
M5 lorry fire
Monday 14 November
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) was called to a lorry fire on the M5 motorway this morning (Monday 14 November).
The incident happened at around 6.30am and involved an articulated lorry loaded with stone travelling northbound between junctions 7 and 6.
Two fire appliances from Worcester and one from Droitwich attended, and on arrival, crews found a wheel on the front tractor unit of the vehicle on fire. Two firefighters in breathing apparatus used one hose reel jet to tackle the fire, bringing it under control by 7am.
Watch Commander Dave Blinston said: "Crews extinguished the fire quickly and efficiently, with no one injured and as little disruption as possible to motorway traffic."
The Highways Agency also attended, re-opening two lanes of the northbound carriageway as soon as it was safe to do so in order to minimise the impact of the fire on rush hour traffic.
Candle Fire Safety Week: Snuff out the fire risk
Monday 14 November
Fire and Rescue Services across the country are asking people to take care this Candle Fire Safety Week (14 – 20 November) and 'snuff out' the risk of fire in their homes.
With the days growing darker and winter setting in, a few candles can lend a warm glow to an evening in or add some festive cheer to a room, but with candle-related house fires peaking sharply between October and February every year, Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) is urging people to take extra care with candles this winter.
The most important steps you can take to keep yourself and your loved ones safe include making sure your candles are kept away from flammable materials like curtains and putting candles out when you leave the room.
Watch Commander Darren Packwood from H&WFRS said: "Candles are a typical sight in many homes, scenting our rooms and giving an atmospheric glow to cold winter nights. But it's important to remember that a candle is not just another piece of furniture. Left unattended, an open flame could all too easily leave a trail of devastation.
"Nationally, over fifty fires are started by candles every day – make sure you don't join this statistic. Take care to place lit candles away from curtains, pets and children, and always remember to put out your candles when you leave the room, even if it's just for a moment."
Even with these precautions, it's vital to be prepared should the worst happen. A working smoke alarm can give you the extra time you need to get out and call 999. Keep yourself and your loved ones safe by testing your alarm regularly and having your escape route planned.
To help you enjoy your candles safely, Fire Kills has teamed up with the British Candlemakers' Federation to offer some top tips:
- Never leave candles unattended. Put burning candles out when you leave the room, and make sure they're out completely at night.
- Place your candles carefully. Make sure they are on a stable surface, out of the reach of pets and children, and keep them away from flammable objects like curtains, furniture, bedding and books.
- Don't move candles once they are lit.
- Do not burn several candles close together as this might cause the flame to flare.
- Burn candles in a well-ventilated room, out of drafts, vents or air currents. This will help prevent rapid or uneven burning, soot, and dripping.
- Put candles out with a snuffer or a spoon - sparks can fly if you blow them out.
- Always put scented candles in a heat resistant holder. These candles are designed to liquify when heated to maximise fragrance.
- Fit a smoke alarm and test it regularly. A working smoke alarm can buy you valuable time to get out, stay out and call 999.
- Make sure that everyone in your home knows what to do if a fire should occur– practise your escape route.
Fore more information visit the Fire Kills campaign's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/firekills.
Working Smoke Alarms Save Lives
Friday 11 November
A Worcestershire man had to exit his property after his woodburner caught fire around 9.20pm last night (Thursday 10 November 2011). Two crews from Worcester Fire Station attended the incident in Leigh, Worcestershire and used a hose-reel jet and chimney rods to bring the fire under control. Crews also had to clear smoke logging to the ground and first floor of the property and cut-away burnt timbers.
Station Commander Phil Berry said: "Fortunately the property had smoke alarms and a carbon monoxide detector installed. The alarm alerted the owner to a developing fire in his woodburner – allowing him to escape safely and call the Fire Service.
"Smoke alarms should be tested weekly and if the battery needs changing this should be done promptly. Working smoke alarms can and do save lives!"
Further advice about fire safety in the home is available here.....
Timely Road Safety Advice
Thursday 10 November
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (HWFRS) is reminding road users across the region to get ready for winter.
The Service works closely with the Safer Roads Partnership and road safety is a key part of this year's Winter Safety campaign, Station Commander Grant Wills explained: "Firefighters attend nearly twice as many road incidents as house fires. Dark nights and treacherous road conditions during winter months bring increased risks. However, preparing for winter will help to reduce your chances of being caught out or involved in a collision."
HWFRS advises drivers:
Ensure your vehicle is properly serviced and tyres have good tread depth.
Always check local advice before deciding whether or not to travel.
Make sure you have plenty of fuel and screen-wash to cope with any delays or diversions.
Clear ALL snow and ice off windows, mirrors, lights and roof - even for short journeys.
Take a few moments to pack an 'emergency kit' in the car in case of break down or delay.
Station Commander Wills advised that useful items to include in a winter kit would be an ice-scraper, torch, warm clothes and a blanket, a pair of boots, a first aid kit (plus a supply of any prescribed medication you may need), battery jump leads, a shovel for snow, food, drink and sunglasses to help see in low winter sun. A mobile phone charger for the car will help to keep you in touch with everyone for longer.
Hospital Returning to Normal Following False Alarm
Thursday 10 November
The Worcester Royal Hospital is now getting back to normal following a partial evacuation earlier this morning (Wednesday 9 November).
Crews from Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) were called to the site at 9.22am following the activation of an automatic fire alarm and the smell of burning in parts of the hospital.
Four fire engines attended (three from Worcester and one from Droitwich) and the Aerial Ladder Platform from Hereford was also used as a viewing platform as the roof and upper levels of the hospital building were checked.
The Fire Service gave their stop message at 11.06am after an extensive search of the site.
Station Commander Grant Wills from H&WFRS said: "Following a systematic search of each floor of the hospital, we can confirm that the smell of burning was due to external fumes which had entered the air handling unit and had circulated throughout the building."
Those evacuated during the incident have now returned to the hospital and roads in the area are being re-opened.
Statement Following Smoke Alarm Newspaper Report
Thursday 10 November
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) has stressed that a smoke alarm is still the most important piece of life saving equipment in any home despite national newspaper reports which have said that two small fires have occurred in the smoke alarms themselves.
The extremely rare incidents both involved Fire Angel ST620 smoke alarms which had been taken off the ceiling and stored elsewhere after the low battery warning had sounded. Fire Angel and the local fire services involved are investigating the cause of the two incidents.
There have not been any incidents in which a smoke alarm fitted by H&WFRS has caused a fire.
Station Commander Grant Wills said: "We are aware of the incident reported in a national newspaper today but I'd like to reassure people that a smoke alarm is still the best line of defence against a fire and is something which every home should have.
"Just this morning I visited a woman who had experienced a fire in her home and thanks to her working smoke alarm she managed to get out of the property before the arrival of the firefighters. She is sure that the smoke alarm saved her life.
"Smoke alarms provide a vital early warning at the first sign of fire and gives everyone in a house time to get out quickly."
Station Commander Wills confirmed that there have been no incidents of faulty smoke alarms in Herefordshire or Worcestershire and that there is no evidence to suggest that anyone with one of these alarms has any cause for concern.
"We would like to reassure everyone who has one of these alarms in their home that they should not worry and leave the alarm where it is," he said.
If anyone has a Fire Angel ST620 smoke alarm in their home which is giving the low battery signal – a regular chirping sound – they should call the Fire Angel Technical Support line on 0800 141 2561.
Fire Angel and the local fire services involved are investigating the two incidents.
Firefighters visit Hereford United Football Club
Tuesday 8 November
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (HWFRS) visited Hereford United Football Club (HUFC) on Saturday 5th November 2011 as the club hosted their first ever Family Festival.
Firefighters visited the ground with the Service's Community Safety Team, Young Firefighters and volunteers for the match against Crawley Town and provided safety advice to fans as part of the HWFRS Winter Safety campaign. Prior to the start of the match, fans also had a chance to see some of the latest fire and rescue appliances based in the town.
A good level of fitness is something that both footballers and firefighters are well known for, and after an outstanding first half display from HUFC, Firefighter Hannah Densley and Station Commander Martin Lown competed in a half-time version of the 'Toughest Fire Fighter Contest', both wearing full fire-kit. Cheered on by both sets of fans, Martin won the race to the penalty spot and kicked the winning goal in the top right hand corner of the net, past mascot Edgar the Bull.
The distance covered by Martin and Hannah during the contest will go towards the HWFRS FireFit Challenge. Details of how fans can also take part in the FireFit Challenge – helping firefighters and HUFC to cover a stage of the 5,250 miles in a virtual Beijing to London 'triathlon' - will be posted on the Fire Service website.
Tim Russon, Vice-Chairman of HUFC, said: "This was a fantastic afternoon for all those who came to watch the match on Saturday. The team played well and fans had chance to pick up some tips on staying safe in their homes and on the roads this winter as well as enjoying the football. We wish the Fire Service good luck in completing their FireFit Challenge and hope that it will inspire more people to think about their health and fitness in the run up to the Olympics and beyond."
At the end of 90 minutes (and added time), the final score was a 1:1 draw.
Tractor Driver's Lucky Escape
Tuesday 8 November
Firefighters say that the driver of a tractor involved in a road traffic collision near Crizeley (near Wormbridge) yesterday morning (Monday 7 November) was fortunate not to have been seriously injured.
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) was first alerted to the incident at 11.30am with reports that a tractor had overturned. Two crews from Hereford were sent to the scene, where they found the overturned tractor on fire.
Watch Commander Boris Borkowski explained: "We saw a thick plume of black smoke on our way to the incident and so knew then that we were going to find more than an overturned tractor. As we arrived a few moments later, we were confronted by the tractor, which had tipped over on a steep bank and was now heavily involved in fire, but no sign of the driver. Two firefighters in breathing apparatus started attacking the flames using a hose reel and foam, and we could then see that the driver had escaped from the cab, and we were able to squeeze past the fire and locate him some distance away. A paramedic was then led past the fire to the injured man and he was given treatment at the scene before being taken to hospital by ambulance."
He confirmed that the fire was under control after around 15 minutes although damping down continued after this, and that the tractor was completely destroyed as a result of the incident. He also explained how firefighters had dug a trench below the tractor to catch the oil and diesel leaking from the damaged vehicle in an attempt to minimise the environmental impact.
Police also attended the incident, while the Highways Agency and Environment Agency were notified.
Watch Commander Borkowski ended: "Not only was the driver lucky to escape serious injury, his dog, who was in the cab with him at the time, also escaped, covered in diesel and in need of a good bath, but otherwise unharmed."
Water Rescue Follows River Exercise
Monday 7 November
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service was called to the River Severn in Worcester just after 9pm last night (Sunday 6 November) following reports of a male in the water.
Water rescue boats from both Worcester and Evesham attended along with fire crews from Worcester and Kidderminster, and on arrival, they found a male in the river, just near to the fountain at South Quay.
Station Commander Gary Jay from H&WFRS explained: "The male had been in the water for around 20 minutes when we arrived and so it was vital that he was brought to safety as quickly as possible. Members of the Swift Water Rescue team entered the water, and used throw lines to secure the male and get him out of the river within minutes. He was then checked by paramedics at the scene before being taken by land ambulance to hospital."
This incident followed a water rescue training exercise on the River Avon in Evesham earlier the same day, aimed at fine tuning the Service's response to water-based emergencies and improving the way crews and other organisations work together in such situations.
Station Commander Jay added: "Incidents of this nature highlight just how invaluable our training is. Sunday's exercise in Evesham simulated a flood situation in which cars had entered the river, requiring a rapid response and co-ordinated approach from all those attending. The exercise went very well, and can only help us when we are called to future water-based incidents like the rescue from the River Severn last night."
Family Escape After Smoke Alarm Alert
Friday 4 November
Firefighters say that an early warning from a smoke alarm undoubtedly helped a family escape from a fire at their home in Bromsgrove last night (Thursday 3 November).
Shortly after 10pm last night, a woman was ironing at her home in Old Station Road when she heard the smoke alarm activate. Noticing smoke near the front door, she quickly went upstairs to wake her daughter and they were able to leave the property through the back door.
Fire crews from Bromsgrove attended the incident along with paramedics and the police, and two firefighters in breathing apparatus went into the house while a hose reel and covering jet were used to put out the fire at the front of the property. Positive pressure ventilation equipment was then used to clear the smoke from inside the house.
The woman was treated by paramedics at the scene for the effects of smoke inhalation.
Crew Commander Nicholas Dale from Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service said: "The early alert from the smoke alarm gave this family the time they needed to escape from the fire threatening their home.
"We regularly offer advice on the importance of having working smoke alarms fitted and this incident illustrates just what a difference they can make in the event of fire. We'd urge all householders to take note of this and take action while it's fresh in their minds, fitting a smoke alarm on each level of their house and testing each alarm on a weekly basis."
He confirmed that the fire involved charity bags placed outside the door earlier that evening and that the front door and the door frame were damaged as a result of the incident, with extensive smoke logging inside the house.
Police and fire officers are working together to establish how the fire started.
Worcester City Centre Commercial Premises Fire
Thursday 3 November
Fire appliances from Worcester (x2), Droitwich and Malvern plus an arial ladder platform were sent to commercial premises in Broad Street, Worcester following reports of a fire in the city centre.
The call came in to fire control at 9.10am this morning (Thursday 3 November), after a member of staff had identified smoke and sparks coming from a light fitting and the second floor premises was evacuated. The incident was quickly scaled down once fire crews had ensured electrical supplies had been isolated and there was no spread of fire beyond the affected light fitting.
Station Commander Mark Strutt of Worcester Fire Station said, "The incident was quickly scaled down once we were in a position to confirm the nature and scale of the fire - and most importantly that no-one was missing or injured. The incident was closed at 9.45am with a crew remaining on scene carrying out inspection works and offering advice.
"If you discover a fire at work or in a public place, raise the alarm, evacuate all floors of the building (and any adjoining premises in necessary), then dial 999. Don't re-enter the building until you are advised that it is safe by the Fire Service."
Mark went on to remind business managers that Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service have published fire safety advice pertaining to commercial premises which can be found here...
Elderly Couple – Without Smoke Alarms Have Lucky Escape
Thursday 3 November
An elderly couple were very lucky to escape unharmed following a fire at their property in Hatfield, Herefordshire yesterday (2 November), after a passing neighbour saw smoke damage to part of their property and raised the alarm shortly before 8:30am.
Both crews from Bromyard attended the incident and found that a fire involving wood stored in a shed attached to the property had spread to part of the main building and along fencing. Both occupants were unharmed however firefighters were required to remove roof tiles and cut away potential fire risks.
Station Commander Grant Wills said, "The couple had a very lucky escape as they didn't have any smoke alarms and the fire caused damage to the main part of the building. A crew returned later in the day to fit free smoke alarms as the first part of a Home Fire Safety Check (HFSC) in the couple's home.
"The Fire Service can provide HFSC's free of charge - and most importantly, before a fire occurs. If you need assistance or you know of an elderly /vulnerable person who may benefit from this service, you can call FREEPHONE 0800 032 1155
Traffic Collision in Welland
Thursday 3 November
Firefighters released two casualties from a vehicle following a road traffic collision on the Danemore Crossroads at Welland.
The incident happened on the B4208 at 1.30pm on Wednesday 2 November.
On arrival at the scene firefighters from Malvern and Upton found that two cars had been in collision. Two occupants were trapped in one of the vehicles and needed to be released so that they could be cared for by the paramedics at the scene.
Firefighters used hydraulic cutting equipment to remove the roof and door of the vehicle and were then able to release the casualties. One of the casualties was taken to hospital by land ambulance and the other was airlifted.
Electric Blanket Testing in Kington & Ross-on-Wye
Wednesday 2 November
Electric blanket users living near Kington or Ross-on-Wye are being urged to take their blankets along to their local fire station to be safety checked this week.
The Kington testing session takes place tomorrow (Thursday 3 November) at the fire station in Churchill Road, Kington between 10am and 3.30pm, while the Ross-on-Wye session will be held at Ross fire station in Gloucester Road between 10am and 3.30pm on Friday 4 November.
These are both multi-agency events, targeted primarily towards older people, and will involve Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) as well as representatives from Age UK, Trading Standards, Local Policing Teams from West Mercia Police and Signposting at Herefordshire Council. Similar events have already taken place in Ledbury, Hereford and Bromyard while a testing session in Leominster is taking place today ( 2 November). Those taking along their electric blankets to be tested can also get advice on home security, health care, energy efficiency and other services for older people, as well as on all aspects of fire safety, particularly the importance of having working smoke alarms in the home.
Testers checked 46 blankets at Hereford fire station on Monday (31 October) and 17 of these were found to be unsafe.
Explaining that electric blanket safety testing is a key part of the Fire Service's community safety calendar, Pete Hope, Community Safety Advisor with H&WFRS, said: "Well over a third of electric blankets tested at the session in Hereford earlier this week were found to be defective in one way or another, and we were able to offer replacement blankets for those found to be unsafe.
"We'd urge people to ensure their own blankets are in a safe condition to use by bringing them along to either the Kington or Ross testing sessions on Thursday or Friday of this week – these are the last dates in Herefordshire we have planned this autumn, so don't miss out!"
To book your FREE blanket test at Kington or Ross-on-Wye, please make an appointment by calling 01432 347030 or drop by on the day if you are prepared to wait / collect later.
Safety Warning Following Weekend of Chimney Fires
Tuesday 1 November
Firefighters are re-issuing their chimney safety advice after being called to eight separate chimney fire incidents across the two counties over the weekend.
On Friday evening (28 October), crews from Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service were called to a woodburner fire in Hallow in Worcester, to a fire in Webheath in Redditch involving a bird's nest in the chimney, to another woodburner chimney fire in Bewdley and a fire involving a logburner at an address in Bourneheath in Bromsgrove.
On Saturday (29 October), crews attended a woodburner fire in Sarnesfield near Eardisley in the morning while during the afternoon, they went to chimney fire in Malvern and a chimney fire in Hereford, also involving a woodburner.
In the early hours of Sunday morning (30 October), they dealt with a more serious fire at a house in Kington involving a woodburner, which spread from the chimney breast into the roof space (Note that this fire was featured in separate media release).
Explaining that chimney fire safety is a key part of this year's Winter Safety Campaign, Watch Commander Darren Packwood said: "We are continuing to see an increase in the number of chimney fires we get called to, a trend that is very concerning. The effects of a chimney fire can be devastating and we want to do all that we can to highlight the risks and ensure that those who have real fires or woodburners are taking the right safety precautions."
He said that many fires can be prevented by having chimneys swept regularly and burning the correct fuel, and he urged people to book an appointment with an approved chimney sweep to ensure their chimney is safe to use.
H&WFRS provides safety advice on chimneys and can be viewed by clicking here...
You can also download a PDF leaflet with advice by clicking here...
Fire Service Exercise in Evesham
Tuesday 1 November
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) is planning a water rescue exercise in Evesham this weekend and so is warning that any rescue crews seen near the river are most likely to be part of the training.
The exercise, which will take place from 10am on Sunday 6 November on the River Avon near Abbey Road Bridge and Workman Bridge, is designed to simulate a flood situation where crews will need to respond to a range of challenges.
Fire crews from Evesham, Broadway and Pebworth will be taking part along with the water rescue team from Worcester and the Environmental Protection Unit from Stourport. West Midlands Search and Rescue will also be participating while Community Safety Volunteers from H&WFRS will be acting as casualties to help make the training as realistic as possible.
Station Commander Gary Jay from H&WFRS explained: "We are giving advance notification of the exercise as we do not want people to be alarmed if they notice activity near the river on Sunday morning."
He continued: "Exercises of this type are an invaluable part of H&WFRS's overall training plan, helping us to fine tune our response to water-based emergencies and improve the way our crews and other organisations work together in such situations."
Young Firefighters Open Evening
Tuesday 1 November
If you are aged between 13 and 17 and looking for a new challenge, why not come along to an Open Evening at Redditch Fire Station and find out more about joining the Young Firefighters Association?
The Open Evening will be held on Thursday 10 November from 7.30pm at Redditch Fire Station in Birmingham Road, Redditch, and anyone interested in joining the group is welcome to attend.
The evening will start with introductions and a full presentation on the Young Firefighters Association (YFA) to include information on basic training and the range of opportunities that becoming a member can offer. Existing young firefighters will also be on hand at the event to share their experiences.
Firefighter Chris Verney who runs the Redditch branch of the Young Firefighters Association explained : "Those coming along to the Open Evening will have chance to find out more about the training and the range of activities young people can get involved in with the YFA. They will also be able to have a go at hose running and try a ladder climb on the drill ground."
He explained that the YFA is a disciplined, uniformed youth organisation open to both males and females aged between 13 and 17-years-old and that those joining will undergo a 13-week training programme before taking part in a passing out parade in front of their families and senior fire officers. Young firefighters can then start learning more complex fire drills and take part in community events alongside regular firefighters.
He said: "Redditch Young Firefighters meet every week on a Thursday evening between 7pm – 9pm at Redditch Fire Station and although the focus is on training and learning new skills, it's also an opportunity to make new friends and have a lot of fun. We currently have significantly more males than females in the group but want to stress that the Young Firefighters Association is open to both sexes and we hope to get both coming along to the Open Evening."
He added that the Young Firefighter of the Year 2011 for Herefordshire and Worcestershire is currently a female, with 16-year-old Megan Pugh from Bromsgrove receiving the High Sheriff's Award at a recent awards ceremony in Worcester.
Young people interested in finding out more about the YFA can either turn up to the Open Evening on the night ready for a 7.30pm start or can contact FF Chris Verney from Redditch Young Firefighters Association at cverney@hwfire.org.uk
House Fire in Eardisley
Wednesday 2 November
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service was called to a fire at a bungalow in Eardisley yesterday afternoon (Monday 31 October).
The initial call reporting a cooker fire at the address was received at 1.10pm and fire crews from Eardisley and Kington attended. On arrival, firefighters found that the bungalow itself was on fire and so called for extra resources, and an additional crew from Peterchuch was brought to the scene. With the occupant safely evacuated from the bungalow, crews tackled the fire from outside using two hose reel jets. Two firefighters in breathing apparatus then went into the property and rescued the family dog (a collie cross), from inside.
The fire was fully extinguished by 2.20pm, although crews stayed at the house beyond this time to assist with salvage operations.
One male was also checked by paramedics at the scene.
Station Commander Bob Sproat said: "The fire started on the cooker then quickly spread, damaging the rest of the kitchen. Although there was no smoke alarm, the man realised the imminent danger and was able to close doors behind him as he quickly exited the building and raised the alarm. Had the fire gone unnoticed, the situation would have been much more serious.
"Closed doors, combined with the prompt actions of the first crews to arrive on scene, prevented the fire from spreading past the kitchen and its roof-space. This allowed us to save the dog and prevent significant fire and smoke damage throughout the building."
Station Commander Sproat advised that despite the recent rise in chimney fires, cooking was still the major cause of domestic fires - not everyone has a chimney but most of us cook! He issued a reminder that cooking should never be left unattended and that working smoke alarms will alert you, and anyone nearby, to a fire in your property. Every second counts when you need to escape fire.
If you a discover fire… Raise the Alarm, Get Out, Stay Out, Dial 999
Hereford United Footballers Urge You to Check Your Smoke Alarm
Wednesday 2 November
On Saturday 5th November 2011 Hereford United will stage their first ever Family Festival with the support of Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service for the big day.
The Family Festival is all part of a Football League incentive for clubs to link with their communities and attract fresh support to watch the sport. United are staging their big day this weekend when they play league leaders Crawley Town at Edgar Street.
A big feature of the afternoon will be the special visit from Hereford and Worcester firefighters who are going to work with the Bulls to help promote fitness and safety to fans – and of course, support their local team.
As part of its winter safety campaign Fire Service staff will be outside the ground from 1:30pm, so why not come along early with family and friends and take the opportunity to see the latest equipment on the fire engines and ask firefighters your questions such as: “Why should smoke alarms be tested weekly and not monthly?”
Fans can also take part in the FireFit Challenge – helping your firefighters and HUFC to cover a stage of the 5,250 miles in a virtual Beijing to London ‘triathlon’.
The festival will also include a fancy dress competition, face painting for children and half time entertainment on the day will include a FireFit and football skills challenge involving the Fire Service mascot “Welephant” and United’s own “Edgar the Bull”.
The club are selling a special family ticket for £25 – which will admit 2 adults and up to 3 children – for this game. Further details can be found on the following link to Hereford United’s website…www.herefordunited.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10835~2492114,00.html
Consultation Closes Soon
Tuesday 1 November
There are just over two weeks left for organisations to have their say on proposed changes to the way Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) attends Automatic Fire Alarm calls.
The Service has reviewed its response to Automatic Fire Alarm (AFA) call-outs as around 95% of these turn out to be false alarms.
Around a third of the 8,000 callouts the Service receives each year are to AFAs, and crews lose an estimated 4,000 hours attending these false alarms.
False alarms caused by AFAs also divert essential services from real emergencies, potentially putting life and property at risk. Furthermore, they present an unnecessary risk to crews and the public whilst responding under blue-lights and they divert time away from firefighter training, community fire safety and other education work. They are also a drain on public finances.
Area Commander George Sherry from H&WFRS explained: "With these factors in mind, it was essential that we carried out a review and implement changes in the way we respond to AFAs –particularly in the current economic climate where public resources are stretched."
"It simply isn't sensible for us to commit so many resources to automatic fire alarm calls. To think that we attend around 3,000 calls a year where no firefighting action is required is actually quite staggering - but we will always respond when we are needed."
He offered reassurance that the Service will continue to attend AFAs at premises where there may be a high risk to life, such as dwellings, schools, residential care and other residential premises. For hospitals and non-residential premises, including offices, shops, factories and warehouses, where there is less of a risk, the Service will attend once a '999' call confirms the nature of the incident. Instead of automatically sending fire appliances to AFAs, Fire Control Operators will in future ask a series of questions to establish if there is a fire – or if the AFA was simply triggered accidentally.
Area Commander Sherry stressed that if there's any doubt as to whether members of the community may be at risk, the Service would always attend.
H&WFRS has been working closely with key organisations to make sure everyone understands their responsibilities and role in bringing down the number of false alarms the Service attends.
Full details of these changes along with advice for business and other organisations can be found here... The consultation closes on Friday, November 11, 2011. The Service would like to receive consultation responses from any organisation in Herefordshire or Worcestershire with an Automatic Fire Alarm system.
Bonfire Night Organised Displays and Firework Advice
Tuesday 1 November
As part of its winter safety campaign Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service is encouraging people to stay safe and consider visiting an organised display to enjoy Bonfire Night this Saturday 5th November 2011.
Gill Pinder, Education Officer for HWFRS said: "Community Safety staff have been out visiting schools over the past two weeks to get bonfire and firework safety messages across to young people.
"It is very important that everyone understands the dangers around Bonfire Night – and that you must be 18 or over to purchase fireworks. We are also reminding parents and guardians that sparklers can burn at temperatures of up to two thousand degrees centigrade, so they should NEVER be given to children under the age of five.
"Properly organised bonfire and firework displays provide a safe environment to view a really good firework display and enjoy Bonfire Night with your friends and family – without the risk of life changing injuries."
HWFRS has also issued advice for anyone wishing to organise their own private display. By following a few simple firework and bonfire safety tips, residents across Herefordshire and Worcestershire can reduce the risk of personal injury or damage to property.
Click here to see our firework and bonfire safety advice.....
Lucky Escape From House Fire in Kington
Tuesday 1 November
Fire officers from Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service say that a house fire in Rushock Bank in Kington at the weekend had the potential for far more serious consequences.
Crews were alerted to the incident shortly after 1.30am on Sunday morning (30 October) after a woman at the house awoke to the smell of smoke in the property.
Firefighters from Kington fire station were first to arrive and they found the family safely evacuated from their semi-detached house and a fire burning in the roof space, threatening their house and the adjoining property. Crews from Eardisley and Kingsland also attended the incident along with the Aerial Ladder Platform from Hereford.
Firefighters in breathing apparatus attacked the seat of the fire, and with the support of other crews and the use of two hose reels and one main jet, the fire was quickly brought under the control. A section of roof at the house was completely destroyed in the blaze while damage to the second property was limited to smoke damage only.
Station Commander Phil Major from H&WFRS praised fire crews involved in tackling the blaze, saying that their rapid attack in the first few minutes played a major part in preventing the spread of the fire.
He explained: "This incident highlights two very important fire safety messages. Firstly it's vital to have a working smoke alarm in your home. There were no working smoke alarms fitted in this property and it was fortunate the woman at the address woke up when she did as the incident could easily have resulted in serious injury or loss of life, as well as major damage to the property itself and the other semi linked to it.
"Secondly, anyone with a woodburning stove or open fire must ensure that their chimneys are properly maintained and are swept on a regular basis by approved chimney sweeps. The risks associated with a chimney fire should never be under estimated and this family was extremely lucky not to have suffered any worse consequences.
"Don't put your loved ones or your home at risk – visit our website now at www.hwfire.org.uk for a list of approved chimney sweeps operating in your area, and get smoke alarms fitted today if you do not already have them."
He confirmed that fire officers had called by at other properties in the Kington area with fire safety advice, highlighting the importance of having working smoke alarms fitted in the home and having chimneys swept regularly.