Submitted by SWFBU on
Dear Brother/Sister
MAJOR FIRE: SMETHWICK, WEST MIDLANDS
You will have followed press coverage of the major fire at a waste recycling plant at Smethwick, West Midlands. I have visited the Brigade today and spoken to members and officials about the incident.
I am sure all members will join me in paying tribute to all the crews who fought what was clearly a very challenging fire. However, local members are also starting to ask questions about how our Service will cope with such challenges in the future in the light of the huge cuts we currently face.
We have made clear that trends in the total number of fires only provide a part of the picture which must be examined in planning for the Fire Service. FRSs should also take account of the demands of resilience and of the need to plan for major incidents.
A thorough review of the Smethwick incident will now be required but will need to take account of the following issues which have already been raised by local members:
• Delays to the arrival of special appliances due to dual staffing arrangements.
• At least 13 Firefighters injured.
• Firefighters being required to spend excessive time in arduous conditions at the incident.
• At one stage only one West Midlands fire engine left available for other incidents.
• Heavy demand for cover from neighbouring Brigades.
It is significant to note that several of the fire engines which attended and fought the fire at Smethwick are due to be cut. Fully staffed fire engines are due to be replaced by adapted commercial vehicles.
We will be working with West Midlands officials to investigate all aspects of this incident and the lessons which need to be learned.
A Service to be proud of - A Service worth defending.
Best wishes.
Yours fraternally
MATT WRACK
GENERAL SECRETARY
