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A Free Christmas Present For Life.

The East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service Christmas message is “'Tis the season to be careful” yet, sadly, the community has seen another life lost through fire in the lead-up to Christmas.

Last Saturday's house fire in Ticehurst reminds us again of the tragic consequences of fire and in particular how the elderly and those living alone can be so vulnerable.

Christmas is a time to think of family and friends and also of those in our community who need our help, especially those who may not fully recognise the need for help themselves. As many of us are busy ourselves preparing for celebrations and choosing gifts for loved ones, let's also think of those we know whose lives could be saved by a free gift.

East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service has staff to conduct free home safety checks and who are able to instal smoke alarms without charge all year round. If you personally know of someone elderly or alone and who may be vulnerable, why not extend the seasonal spirit of goodwill and help them to contact us and arrange a free visit. A few moments of your time may be the most important gift you give this Christmas.

To arrange a home safety visit see our Home Safety Visit Page or call 0800 177 7069.

[Chris Pascoe]

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Funeral of Geoff Wicker.

The funeral of Geoff Wicker will be held at St. Dunstan's, Mayfield Parish Church on Thursday 21st December 2006 at 2.00pm.

The funeral cortege will travel along the High Street in the town of Heathfield at 1.15pm, towards Heathfield Community Fire Station, where Geoff was Officer In Charge. Here, a formal tribute will take place before the cortege moves onto the village of Mayfield. Geoff had lived in Mayfield all his life, up until eight years ago, when his family relocated to Heathfield.

The book of condolences at Heathfield Fire Station includes an entry that reads: “Though I did not know you personally, you were known by all of us in the community. What you did in life and in your last action, makes me proud to be from Heathfield.” Many local people are expected to line the streets of the funeral procession to pay their final respects.

In keeping with fire service tradition, the coffin will be carried on a turn-table ladder fire service vehicle and the fire appliance following the coffin will have the Officer In Charge's seat empty as an indication that there is a member of the team lost. At the church, the road will be lined with operational personnel, as well as other members of East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service. They are expected to be joined by members of other Fire Service's from across the U.K.

The coffin will be carried through the church gates by personnel of Heathfield and Mayfield Fire Station's and will pass through the East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service Guard of Honour, inside the church gates. The coffin will be covered in a Union Jack flag.

The service will be led by Father Nigel Prior, who will be supported by Rev. John Maskell. There are also a number of collegues expected to speak at the funeral, this will include readings of tributes from across East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service. The staff of East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service that are on duty during the service will observe a one minute silence at 2.00pm. At 3.00pm, after the service, the family will be attending a private burial in the churchyard.

Please note: Media are kindly asked to respect the family's privacy.

[Allison Gilson]

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Funeral of Brian Wembridge.

Many hundreds of people are expected to turn out and pay their respects at the funeral of Brian Wembridge, which will be held at All Saints Church, Crowborough on Tuesday 19 December.

The cortège will travel from Crowborough Fire Station to All Saints Church in a small convoy of fire service vehicles followed by family vehicles. The funeral procession will leave Crowborough Fire Station in Beacon Road at 10.30am. In keeping with Fire & Rescue Service tradition, the coffin will be carried on a turn-table ladder fire service vehicle and the fire appliance following the coffin will have the Officer In Charge's seat empty as an indication that there is a member of the team lost.

The funeral procession will then move down the High Street, into Crowborough Hill and end outside All Saints Church just before 11am, these roads will be shut while the procession passes.

At the church, the road will be lined with operational personnel, paying their respects as well as other members of East Sussex Fire Service. They are expected to be joined by members of Fire & Rescue Services from across the UK.

The coffin will be carried through the church gates by personnel of Crowborough Fire Station and will pass through the East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service Guard of Honour, inside the church gates. The coffin will be covered in a Union flag.

The service will be led by Rev. Alex Whiteford, who will be supported by the local minister, Rev. Andrew Corns. There are a number of people expected to speak at the funeral including retired Senior Officer George Hammond, Deputy Chief Fire Officer for Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue Service Bruce Hoad and Chief Fire Officer for East Sussex Des Prichard, who will speak on behalf of the family. The staff of East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service that are on duty during the service will observe a one minute silence at 11.00am. At 12.30pm, after the service, the family will then be taken from the church to a private family service at the crematorium in Tunbridge Wells.

Brian Wembridge was one of two people who lost their lives in an explosion at a fireworks factory, near Ringmer, on Sunday 3 December.

Firefighter Geoff Wicker, a member of the Mobilising and Communication Centre, also lost his life in the incident.

Please note: Media are kindly asked to respect the family's privacy.

[Allison Gilson]

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Marlie Farm Incident Inquest Opens.

The inquests into the deaths of two East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service staff members have been opened and adjourned in Eastbourne. Brian Wembridge, 63, and Geoff Wicker, 49, both lost their lives in an explosion at a fireworks factory in Shortgate, near Ringmer, on December 3. The two inquests were opened and adjourned until a further date when police have completed their investigation.

It has also been confirmed that the funeral of Mr Wembridge, a retired Watch Manager and Service Photographer, will be held on Tuesday, December 19. East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service has not yet been made aware of a date for firefighter Geoff Wicker's funeral.

Two minutes silence was privately held by most fire service personnel across East Sussex on Sunday at the time of the blast (14.44) a week earlier. Fire officers also collected memorial funds from the crowd at Brighton & Hove Albion's Saturday evening match. Geoff Wicker and Brian Wembridge were among 60 members of the service in attendance during the initial stages of the Ringmer incident. Mr Wembridge was a retired firefighter but his family have requested a full brigade funeral. East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service would ask members of the media to respect the family's privacy.

[Allison Gilson]

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The Twelve Tips for Festive Fire Safety.

Public information film launched.

A dramatic public information film to remind people to take extra care during Christmas time has been launched by the Fire Kills campaign, part of the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG).

The film begins with an idyllic seasonal scene from a row of Christmas cards on a mantelpiece, but we soon realise that within each setting of the card a very real tragedy is taking place. It's a serious reminder that many of the things we enjoy about Christmas, such as the fairy lights, candles, paper hats and decorations, can all be fire hazards when proper care is not taken.

You are 50% more likely to die in an accidental house fire during the Christmas period than at any other time of the year [source - DCLG - statistics on accidental dwelling fires 2000 - 2004].

This festive season East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service is urging people to stay safe and protect their homes from fire by following twelve tips for festive fire safety:

On the 1^st day of Christmas.

Check your Christmas tree lights conform to the British Standard. Always use an RCD on outdoor electrical equipment (safety device that can save lives by instantly switching off the power).

On the 2^nd day of Christmas.

Never place candles near your Christmas tree or furnishings. Don't leave them burning unattended.

On the 3^rd day of Christmas.

Make sure your family and visitors staying for the festive period know what to do in an emergency. Practice a fire escape plan.

On the 4^th day of Christmas.

Decorations can burn easily - Don't attach them to lights or heaters.

On the 5^th day of Christmas.

Switch off electrical appliances when not in use, unless they're designed to stay on. Take special care with Christmas lights. Always switch off and unplug Christmas lights before you go to bed.

On the 6^th day of Christmas.

Celebrate Christmas and New Year safely. The risk of accidents, especially in the kitchen, is greater after alcohol is consumed.

On the 7^th day of Christmas.

Most fires start in the kitchen - never leave cooking unattended.

On the 8^th day of Christmas.

If you are planning to celebrate with fireworks, store them in a metal box, read the instructions, never go back to a lit firework and keep a bucket of water nearby.

On the 9^th day of Christmas.

Make sure cigarettes are completely extinguished.

On the 10^th day of Christmas.

Check the battery in your smoke alarm every week and use Christmas as a reminder to clean it and remove dust.

On the 11^th day of Christmas.

Keep candles, lighters and matches out of reach of children.

On the 12^th day of Christmas.

Take the time to check on elderly relatives and neighbours this Christmas - make sure they are fire safe.

See if you can spot the seven hazards shown on the Fire Safety Christmas Card.

Chris Pascoe, Head of Community Safety Department, East Sussex Fire & Rescue said: “Christmas is a time for families and friends and also for having fun. Following our simple fire safety tips will help ensure everyone remains safe and enjoys the season, but don't confine safety to just Christmas. To help you be safe all year round Fire Officers are available to visit you to carry out a home safety check and install smoke alarms completely free of charge. To arrange a home safety visit, visit our Home Safety Visit Page or call free on 0800 1777069. Further fire safety information can also be found at www.firekills.gov.uk.”

[Steve Wright]

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Memorial Fund.

An account has now been established at the Nat West Bank for a Memorial Fund which has been created to help the families of Geoff Wicker and Brian Wembridge.

The name of the Account is the East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service Memorial Fund.
The Bank Sort Code details are: 60.13.09 (Nat West Lewes Branch)
The Account number is: 41549392

Alternatively, cheques made payable to the East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service Memorial Fund can be sent to the following address:

However, if preferred, donations are also welcomed to be made by cheque to the Fire Services Benevolent Fund and forwarded to the above address.

[Diana Williams]

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Tribute to Brian Wembridge, East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service.

Brian Wembridge, aged 63, has had a long and distinguished career with East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service and was an experienced officer serving operationally at many stations including Crowborough Fire Station and working at Divisional Headquarters and Operations Command. He retired as a Watch Manager in 1994, however he continued with the service as a Support Staff member as video technician filming fires, road traffic accidents and other special services for training and media purposes. Brian's work is well respected by all sections of the Service and the media. Brian was very much involved in youth intervention with the 'Safe Drive Stay Alive', 'LIFE' and 'Phoenix' Projects and and with the Networking Women in the Fire Service, many members of which have texted and called in their sadness at Brian's death. Brian was a very popular member of staff, was respected by all in the Service and he will be greatly missed. He had tremendous enthusiasm for the work of the Fire & Rescue Service and worked extremely hard, whilst always remaining cheerful. He leaves a wife and two sons.

[Jeff Collins]

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Tribute to Geoffrey Wicker, East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service.

Geoffrey Wicker, aged 49, joined East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service in 1975 as a retained firefighter and during his time at Mayfield Community Fire Station became an experienced and valuable officer. Geoff became the officer in charge of that station. He transferred to Heathfield Community Fire Station in 1999 and became the officer in charge there also. Geoff joined the Mobilising & Communication Centre in 1991 in addition to his retained firefighter role and was promoted to Watch Manager in 2005. Geoff was a very popular person and a highly respected member of the Service in both his roles and will be greatly missed by all. Geoff provided support and assistance to many of our staff in his retained role, helping to train and mentor others and helping to improve the service both actively in the community and with ideas for improvements. Geoff was highly visible in the Service and was equally proactive working in our Mobilising & Communication Centre where he was a champion for bringing computers onto fire appliances. Geoff has been an extremely enthusiastic team member and has always worked hard, always striving to improve things. Geoff leaves a wife and two daughters and their loss is very much shared by all of us.

[Jeff Collins]

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Fatal Fire involving Fireworks and Cylinders.

“It is my very sad duty to inform you that yesterday two members of East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service lost their lives during a severe fire within East Sussex.”

“A fire call was received for Festival Fireworks, Marlie Farm, The Broyle, Shortgate, Near Ringmer, East Sussex on the 3 December 2006 at 13:49 hours.”

“Crews were faced with a large developing fire involving a range of outbuildings containing fire works and cylinders.”

“The number of attending fire engines was quickly increased to help bring the fire under control.”

“A large explosion is reported to have occurred less than an hour from the first call being received and a number of casualties were reported.”

“In addition to the two fatal casualties nine Firefighters were also injured along with a police sergeant and two members of the public. All the Firefighters have now been discharged from hospital although some treatment will continue for weeks to come.”

“The next of kin have been informed although formal identification of the bodies has not taken place and this is part of the formal investigation process. The names that have been released by the media have not been communicated or confirmed by ESFRS. I would like to confirm that Dick Broady is not one of our members who lost their lives or became injured at the scene.”

“I would like to convey my personal condolences and on behalf of my staff, to the families of our colleagues. Our thoughts are with them at this difficult time. Thank you to everyone who has made offers of support and forwarded kind messages, which is very much appreciated at this time.”

“Arrangements have been put in place to provide support and look after the welfare of those affected by this incident and the police have also provided assistance through their family liaison team.”

“We are cooperating fully with the police and the Health and Safety Executive during this investigation to establish the facts surrounding the situation, which led to this tragic incident. This is a complex situation requiring careful coordination.”

“An on-line condolence facility is available on our website. If you would like to make a donation to the Memorial Fund, bank details are available below.”

“Funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course when the wishes of the two families are known.”

“Thank you for your continued support during this difficult and testing time.”

[Des Prichard]

Donations and books of condolences.

East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service is already overwhelmed by the messages of kindness, support and empathy we are receiving from all over the country in relation to the tragic events of 3 December 2006 when 2 personnel from the Service lost their lives, 9 firefighters were injured, as well as injuries sustained by a Police Officer in the course of the incident at Ringmer, near Lewes, East Sussex.

Memorial Fund.

An account has now been established with immediate effect at the Nat West Bank for a Memorial Fund to be created from all donations received.

The name of the Account is the East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service Memorial Fund.
The Bank Sort Code details are: 60.13.09 (Nat West Lewes Branch)
The Account number is: 41549392
The account is now operational.

Alternatively, cheques made payable to the East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service Memorial Fund can be sent to the following address:

East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service Memorial Fund
East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service
Service Headquarters
20 Upperton Road,
Eastbourne,
East Sussex,
BN21 1EU.

However, if preferred, donations are also welcomed to be made by cheque to the Fire Services Benevolent Fund and forwarded to the above address.

Books of Condolences

Books of Condolences will be available at all East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service stations and other locations from tomorrow afternoon.
Brighton and Hove City Council are opening books of condolences at Portslade Town Hall, Brighton Town Hall, Hove Town and the Jubilee Library in central Brighton.
East Sussex County Council are opening a book of condolence at County Hall Lewes.
All condolences received to date will be gathered into a separate book.
If people prefer to leave messages online, a facility has been set up on our website at www.esfrs.org.
Enquiries can also be e-mailed to us on enquiries@esfrs.org.

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Severe House Fire, North Chailey.

Next Image [click on image to view the image gallery]

On Monday 27th November 2006, a family in Banks Road, North Chailey had to watch as fire destroyed the roof and top floor of their house. Having taken her daughter out by car, the mother returned about 7pm and saw smoke coming out of the roof tiles. Alerting her husband and son in the house, they then had trouble with the phone and had to call the Fire Service from a neighbours house. The first crews attending were met with a fully developed roof fire that had broken through the ceiling and crews were there for most of the night, rotating every four hours. The cause of the fire is still under investigation but at this stage it appears to be a very unfortunate accident.

[Bob Trotter]

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Hastings firefighters Youth work commended.

On Friday 24th November 2006 the work of two Hastings firefighters was recognised by the Chief Fire Officer and Chief Executive. Leo Cacciatore and Keith Morris from The Ridge have been instrumental in re-establishing the Duke of Edinburghs Award Scheme for the young people of the town. Both Leo and Keith have run a number of schemes at Bronze and Silver level which have been ably supported by the various watches and surrounding stations. The CFO&CE today presented both with a Letter of Congratulations recognising the dedication and commitment that they have both demonstrated in providing this valuable development opportunity which has now reached over 5 million young people in the UK since its inception 50 years ago.

[Dave Sheppard]

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Boy trapped in rocks near Groombridge

On Wednesday 22^nd November 2006 East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service rescued a young boy from rocks near Groombridge a local beauty spot. The boy slipped into a 30cm wide crevice and became trapped. Fire and Rescue crews attended from Crowborough, Mayfield and Tunbridge Wells assisted by a dedicated Rope Rescue Team from Battle and Bexhill.

The crews worked for over two hours to release the boy who was taken to Kent and Sussex Hospital for a full assessment. Rescue Teams were hampered by the remote location of the incident and the very restricted access within the crevice that tapered to approx 10m deep.

[Matthew Elder]

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Chemical Spillage in Hove

A primary school and approximately 20 houses in Hove were evacuated following a spillage of chemicals late afternoon on Monday 13 November 2006. Firefighters from Hove and Preston Circus were called to the spillage involving approximately 30 drums of an acid solution that had become damaged in the back of a lorry in Haddington Street, close to Blatchington Road, Hove.

“There was a possibility that the chemicals could evolve sulphur dioxide gas.” said East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, Hazardous Materials and Environmental Protection officer Dave Sutton. “We had to evacuate St Andrew's Primary School and nearby houses as a precautionary measure.”

Once made safe the damaged containers were taken away, allowing the public to return to their homes and streets to be reopened later that same evening.

[Dave Sutton]

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Chief Fire Officer receives Queen's Fire Service Medal Des Prichard, Chief Fire Officer & Chief Executive, has been awarded the Queen's Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service. The announcement was made in the Queen's Birthday Honours List in June and the medal presented on Friday 10 November 2006. The Queen's Fire Service Medal is awarded by Her Majesty the Queen to those members of the Fire & Rescue Service who have exhibited conspicuous devotion to duty. Councillor Michael Murphy, Chairman of the Fire Authority, said: “This award is thoroughly deserved and I'd like to extend both the Fire Authority's and my own personal congratulations to our Chief Fire Officer Des Prichard. His continued commitment, loyalty and service over the years have been exemplary.” [Jeff Collins]

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Lewes Bonfire Celebrations

East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service's Bonfire contingency plan was hailed a success following no reported property fires in the Lewes area during the Town's Bonfire Celebration. John Ticehurst District Commander for the Lewes area Community Fire Stations said “Crews were kept busy with Home Fire Safety visits during the run up to Bonfire.” John went onto say “On the night the Operational contingency plan for the evening worked well. Lewes Fire Crews dealt with about a dozen small incidents all of which were dealt with promptly before they had a chance to spread.” Home safety visits can be obtained free of charge online here or by phoning free on 0800 177 7069. [John Ticehurst] [photo courtesy of www.needananswer.co.uk]

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Environmental Impact Minimized at Brighton Marina Boat Fire

On Sunday evening 5th November 2006 East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service (ESFRS) attended a fire at Brighton Marina. Two luxury motor cruisers were found to be on fire on pontoon 15. Both boats were severely damaged by fire and, eventually, sunk.

Fifty firefighters worked for several hours to control the blaze and limit damage to other nearby boats and the environment. Compressed air foam (1-7 Foam) was used to suppress the fire and delay the submersion of the burnt-out hulls. An inflatable boom was positioned around the immediate area to contain fuel and oil that spilt onto the surface of the water from the damaged boats. This was later supplemented with further environmental protection equipment by Marina staff to minimise the possible effects of pollution.

An investigation into the cause of the blaze is continuing but the fire is thought to have been the result of an accident on-board one of the boats.

[Richard Fowler]

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Celebrity Launches Hard-Hitting Road Safety Event

East Sussex pupils talk to mother of son killed in crash

A TV actor will launch a hard-hitting road safety initiative aimed at 16 to 18 year-olds for the first time in East Sussex on Monday 6 November to tie-in with National Road Safety Week [6 - 12 November].

'Safe Drive, Stay Alive', organised by East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service (ESFRS) and its community partners, has the support from national TV star Marcus Patric (who plays Ben, a firefighter in Channel 4's Hollyoaks) who will be at the first event on Monday [6 November] at Uckfield Civic Centre, to meet and talk to the pupils about his personal experiences, and how it felt to play a firefighter on the popular TV show.

The Safe Drive, Stay Alive event, sponsored by breakdown organisation Britannia Rescue, aims to educate Sussex young drivers about their actions and possible consequences while they are driving.

The five-day event, based around a live show, will visit different colleges in East Sussex. Each Safe Drive, Stay Alive show focuses on a video reconstruction of a road-traffic collision. The video is interspersed with on-stage, real-life testimonies from members of the emergency services and perhaps the most hard-hitting, a story told by the mother of a young person who lost their life in a road-traffic collision.

Julie Gilbert-King, Station Manager, ESFRS, said: “We deal with the aftermath of road collisions and the impact they have on human lives everyday. Safe Drive, Stay Alive is an extremely important initiative for young people in East Sussex. It is vital these drivers choose safe driving habits from the start.”

Julie continues: “The shocking statistics of deaths from road collisions in Sussex last year clearly show how important the message of Safe Drive, Stay Alive is.”

Statistics show East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service is now called to more road traffic collisions than fires. In 2005, 106 people died as a result of road accidents in Sussex. A road user was killed every 3.5 days, a motorcyclist every 16.5 days and a pedestrian was killed or injured every 10 hours.

Within East Sussex the road incidents attended have risen from 554, in 1996, to 737 in 2004. Human error is a contributory factor in approximately 95% of road collisions.

ESFRS is working towards national targets set by the Government to reduce road accidents. By 2010 its targets are to have a 40% reduction in the number of people killed or seriously injured in road accidents, a 50% reduction in the number of children killed or seriously injured and a 10% reduction in the casualty rate.

Jo Whitbourn, Communications Manager, Britannia Rescue, said: “We are delighted to be working with East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service on this initiative, one that carries a very serious message. While we want young people to have fun and enjoy driving, we also want them to know their limitations. It's not cool to be involved in a road collision.”

“If it's an adrenaline buzz that young drivers are after, then there are plenty of organised tracks that you can race around in a safe, controlled environment. Public roads are not the place to do this.”

The event, mainly funded by Wealden Local Strategic Partnership, will also visit the following places:

Sussex Downs College - 7 November
Uplands School, Wadhurst - 8 November
Filsham Valley School - 9 November
Brighton City College - 9 November
Sussex Downs College - 10 November

For more information about the East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service Road Safety Strategy visit the Community Safety Pages.

Britannia Rescue breakdown cover can be obtained by logging onto the website www.britanniarescue.com or telephoning 0800 591 563.

[The Priory Partnership]

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Fire, Montpelier Cresent, Brighton

At 22.34 hours on Sunday 29th October 2006 an emergency call was received from Montpelier Crescent, Brighton. On arrival crews were met with large volumes of smoke issuing from the ground floor flat. Fortunately the property was fitted with smoke alarms that alerted the residents to the fire.

Teams of firefighters were sent into the property wearing breathing apparatus. Additional Firefighters were sent to the rear of the property where they were met with a large fire on the ground and first floors. Firefighters that had entered the property from the front of the building were met on the ground floor with a severe build up of heat and fire. Firefighters used 1:7 compressed air foam to tackle the fire at the rear of the building and this made fire fighting operations inside the building easier as the foam rapidly knocks down and takes the heat out of the fire. This makes firefighting operations safer for crews to work in and reduces the risk of flashovers occurring.

At the height of the fire 12 breathing apparatus sets, 1:7 compressed air foam, 3 hose reel jets and the Aerial ladder platform were deployed and the hard work of the crews involved stopped the incident from spreading to adjacent flats.

The cause of the fire is at present being investigated in a joint liaison between ESFRS and the police forensic team. During this incident a total of 10 pumping appliances, an Aerial ladder platform, the Service Control vehicle and a water carrier were used. The Fire Victim Support Unit was also used to provide support and assistance to the residents of the property.

[Tony Gurr]

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Emergency Services join forces to make Seaford Safer

The public of Seaford to benefit from a new partnership

The people of Seaford are to benefit from a new partnership between East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service (ESFRS) and South East Coast Ambulance Service NHS Trust (SECAMb).

The two emergency services will now share facilities at Seaford Community Fire Station in order to provide a better service to the local community and make Seaford a safer place to live.

Ambulance paramedics and technicians will share the same base as Seaford firefighters while on standby. This will enable them to rest and fully recuperate between 999 calls.

The public's safety and health with benefit as the partnership between the two emergency services will improve their communication with each other when responding to emergencies. This in turn will allow both services to be in the right place, at the right time, together. The initiative, supported by the Fire Authority, is the first of several similar schemes across East Sussex. Councillor Michael Murphy, Chairman of East Sussex Fire Authority, said: “This not only represents an improvement in the level of service delivery for the people of Seaford, but also shows how the Fire and Rescue Service is modernising by working more closely with our emergency response partners.”

The new service will further enhance the relationship between local firefighters and ambulance staff who regularly work together when responding to incidents. Phil White, Station Manager at Seaford Fire Station, said: “East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service looks forward to working in partnership with our emergency colleagues. This closer relationship will further enhance both of our services to the public.”

James Pavey, Service Delivery Manager at SECAMb, said: “Undoubtedly it makes good sense for emergency services to share resources where practical - we also anticipate this will be mutually beneficial for both ambulance staff and firefighters.”

The new service launched last week at Seaford Fire Station. Other fire stations in East Sussex that are planning to adopt this scheme include Roedean Fire Station and Hastings Fire Station.

[The Priory Partnership]

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Bonfire Night Safety

The total number of Firework Injuries in Great Britain during the Bonfire season is beginning to show signs that the education programme is having an impact (see the DTI statistics opposite). Please help to continue this promising trend by following the advice given below.

Fireworks

“Fireworks are dangerous and can be lethal.” is the message from Steve Wright, East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service. “The utmost care is necessary in their storage, handling and use, whether you are organising a display for the family, friends or the general public. East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service want you to have a safe event - by following some simple do's and don'ts risks can be greatly reduced.”

• Keep fireworks in a closed metal box and take them out one at a time.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions on each firework. Read them by torchlight - NEVER a naked flame.
• Light fireworks at arm's length using a safety firework lighter or fuse wick.
• Stand back after lighting.
• NEVER go back to a firework once lit - it may go off in your face.
• Keep a bucket of water handy.
• Used fireworks should be collected after the display with care. Douse with water, bury or place in a metal container.
• Keep children under control. (See BONFIRES below)
• Keep pets indoors.

Bonfires

Bonfires present additional hazards when it's dark.

If you must light a bonfire, in connection with a fireworks display, then:

• Site well away from houses, garages, sheds, fences, overhead cables, trees and shrubs
  AND ALWAYS AWAY FROM FIREWORKS.
• Before lighting the fire check that no pets or children are hiding inside it.
• Build the stack so that it is stable and will not collapse outwards or to one side.
• NEVER use flammable liquids - paraffin or petrol - to light the fire.
• Don't burn foam-filled furniture, aerosols, and tins of paint or bottles.
• Keep everyone away from the fire - especially children, who must be supervised all the time.
• For an emergency keep buckets of water, the garden hose or a fire extinguisher ready.
• Pour water on the embers before leaving.

Links to Further Information

• Department Of Trade And Industry - Advice to Busineses.
• East Sussex County Council Trading Standards - Firework Sales.

[Steve Wright]

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New Methods to Cope with Ongoing Water Shortages

Public and businesses urged to be extra vigilant with water supplies

Despite recent rainfall, there is still the threat of a water drought in Sussex. While many people are worrying about hosepipe bans, other organisations have more serious issues on their agenda.

East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service's (ESFRS) main concern is supplying water to fire appliances in order to fight fires and keep the public in Sussex safe.

ESFRS would like to reassure the public that if a fire occurs, it will be business as usual.

To ensure this happens, ESFRS has identified all the open water supplies and includes water from rivers, lakes, ponds which can be located on a map held on a computer on every fire engine. Rain water is also being collected at some fire stations and held in large underground storage tanks. This 'grey water' can be used for firefighting purposes should the fresh water mains supply be seriously affected.

As well as using varied water supplies, East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service has innovative firefighting equipment at their disposal to tackle blazes.

For example, a high-volume pump (HVP), a machine capable of distributing large amounts of water over long distances for firefighting, is used when incidents such as water shortages affect the local water supplies. The HVP was supplied by the government as part of the national resilience arrangements and can also be used to remove large quantities of water following flooding incidents. Ironically, drought conditions bring spates of flash flooding which create other operational demands and ESFRS has trained and equipped firefighters to respond to such emergencies.

ESFRS has also pioneered the use of 'compressed air foam' (CAF) which produces a firefighting media which creates 7 times the volume of firefighting media for only one unit of water. The foam is an environmentally-friendly solution which produces large amounts of foam reducing the amount of water required to fight fires. The CAF is very effective and available on a number of fire engines throughout East Sussex.

Dave Dowling, Director of Risk Management, ESFRS explains: “We are no different from any other responsible organisation, and have already taken steps to conserve water where possible. We want to reassure everyone that the fire service still has the capability to deal with fires whilst taking measures to reduce the effects on the environment.”

Dave continues: “The public could assist by preventing the fire from happening in the first place and further reduce the need to use precious water. While we are continuing to cope with the water shortages and have systems in place to support our work, we would also urge all members of the public to think about the amount of water they are using. Please help us to help you.”

In addition to taking responsible actions to protect the environment through enhanced firefighting measures, ESFRS has also looked at how it can improve the arrangements for conserving water on a fire station.

The main risk of a water shortage, as for any business, is actually keeping the workplace running by ensuring adequate water supplies are available for the domestic facilities. Work is currently underway to use the 'grey water' stored in the underground tanks to supply some of the domestic facilities, which will not only make better use of the rainwater but reduce costs.

Kevin Clark, Regional Production Manager for South East Water said: “We already enjoy a close and positive working relationship with ESFRS, but are delighted the service has developed other innovative ways of securing water supplies during the current drought. Everyone who uses water has a part to play in making sure what water we currently have goes further.”

With the current water shortages still continuing, it is not only households who are being encouraged to think about their actions. Businesses should make every effort to ensure they are not vulnerable to fires. The Fire and Rescue Service is urging organisations to think about fire safety at this challenging time. To help, ESFRS has issued clear guidelines to businesses to help prevent fires on their premises. Businesses should:

• Carry out regular inspections to ensure that all parts of the premises are safe from fire.
• Identify potential entry routes for intruders - via yards, through fences, flat roofs and drainpipes. Decide on what can be done to prevent such access.
• Check and maintain security. Good security prevents arson as well as theft.
• Arrange regular collections of refuse and waste by the local authority or via a contractor.
• Do not allow rubbish, packaging or waste to accumulate anywhere in or around the premises. It could be set alight by an opportunist fire setter.
• Ensure staff have the necessary fire training and follow safety advice.

Dave Dowling, ESFRS, continues: “We would like to reassure the public that our service will not be comprised by water shortages. As a responsible service provider we are simply asking the community to be extra careful - in terms of water usage and fire safety.”

For more information on fire safety please contact ESFRS on 0845 130 8855 or visit our Community Safety Pages. For more information on saving water please call South East Water on 0845 301 0845 or visit www.southeastwater.co.uk.

[The Priory Partnership]

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Large Barn Fire tackled with 1-7 Foam

ESFRS was called to a barn fire at Plawhatch at 20:47 hours on 12 October 2006. The barn was close to a number of other farm buildings and machinery. The incident was initially attended by crews from East Grinstead and Forest Row. On the request to 'make pumps four', appliances from Uckfield and Turners Hill were also sent. The Service's compressed air foam system (1-7 Foam) on the Uckfield appliance proved invaluable in tackling this fire. The foam was used to coat surrounding buildings and a combine harvester to protect them from the fire and to stop it spreading further. The foam was also useful in controlling the fire whilst additional water was brought in by two water carriers from Uckfield and Burgess Hill.

Although the fire was quickly brought under control, crews maintained a presence at the incident until late the following evening.

[Pat Scott]

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ESFRS recognised by the Hastings Achievers Awards 2006

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East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service attended the Hastings and St. Leonards Observer Achiever Awards 2006 on the evening of Tuesday 10th October at the Hastings Centre and was successful in receiving awards in the following categories: Improving Community Safety The Bexhill LIFE Project received a winners award for this category. The award was received by LIFE Co-ordinator, Watch Manager Dave Milham and Bexhill Station Manager Mani Gilbert-King. Reducing Anti Social Behaviour Firefighter Leo Cacciatore received a runners-up award for his work with the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme operating from The Ridge Fire Station. The Service would like to congratulate all personnel involved in these initiatives, which are now receiving recognition as to their benefit in the community.

[Corinne Burkhill]

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ESFRS Supports National Road Safety Week

6th -12th November 2006 is National Road Safety Week
[organised by Brake, the national road safety charity]

The main theme for this year's event is young driver and passenger safety. We aim to raise awareness about the horrifying number of road crashes that involve young people and offer essential, practical advice to young people about staying safe on the roads. This week of activity will also be used to reinforce the new child seat law that came into force on the 18th September 2006.

Shocking statistics show that the East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service (ESFRS) is now called to more road traffic collisions (RTCs) than fires. In 2005, 106 people died as a result of road accidents in Sussex. A road user was killed every 3.5 days, a motorcyclist every 16.5 days and a pedestrian was killed or injured every 10 hours. An 18-year-old driver is more than three times as likely to be involved in a crash as a 48 year old.

Since the launch of its Road Safety Strategy earlier this year, the East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service has been working to support its partners in efforts to reduce RTCs and casualties.

Examples of initiatives East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service will be supporting during this week include, Safe Drive, Stay Alive - a hard-hitting road safety campaign that was launched earlier this year, aimed at 16-18 year olds learning to drive. In addition, ESFRS continue to support a national initiative called LIFE (Local Intervention Fire Education) - a fire safety-training course for young people. The content of the course reflects the consequences of dangerous and illegal driving. Station personnel will be involved in a variety of activities to raise awareness of road safety issues and to support its partners.

Further information can be gained by calling 0845 130 8855 or visiting www.brake.org.uk.

[Neal Robinson]

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Lorry Crashes into Cottage on A26

On Thursday 5th October at 10:00 hrs firefighters from Lewes, Brighton and Battle attended an Road Traffic Incident on the A26 one mile north of Lewes. A large unladen lorry had collided with a cottage, partially demolishing it and in the process causing considerable disruption to a major road. Fortunately no one was in the cottage at the time but the lorry driver was taken to hospital for further checks. Firefighters with the help of Battle's Operational Support Unit (OSU), an Aerial Ladder Platform (ALP) from Brighton and a nearby Fork Lift Truck were required to make the building safe before the Lorry could be extracted and towed away. [Brian Wembridge]

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Major Fire at Tyre Fitting Factory - “Make Pumps 8”

East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service received a large number of calls to a tyre fitting factory just after 6pm on Friday 29th September. Two fire engines were despatched from Eastbourne fire station to Ebley tyres on Courtlands Road.

The first crews to arrive were faced with a 2 storey industrial building measuring approximately 30m x 30m used as a tyre fitting factory. The building was reported to be 'well alight' and the crews quickly established cylinders were involved in the fire. The officer in-charge requested a further four fire engines and deployed crews to set up firefighting jets to prevent the fire spreading to adjacent property. Special foam making equipment was also used to try to bring the fire under control and reduce the temperature around the cylinders.

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As the fire continued to develop and it became apparent that the cylinders included acetylene cylinders, a decision was taken to withdraw crews to a safe distance. The officer in-charge requested a further 2 fire engines with an aerial appliance which can be used as a water tower and provide both video and thermal images from above the fire. Due to the potential hazard posed by acetylene cylinders, it was necessary to request the police to instigate the evacuation of surrounding houses within the 'hazard zone' and terminate all rail activity which affected all services into Eastbourne for 24 hours. Approximately 200 people were evacuated and most of them went to local friends and family. East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service worked with the Health Protection Agency (HPA) and Sussex Police to prepare a leaflet providing advice to the local residents. The police distributed approximately 300 leaflets down wind of the incident on the precautions to take regarding the effects of the smoke. Regular meteorological reports were requested to monitor the wind direction and weather conditions.

At approximately 8:45pm on the same evening, 100% of the building was reported to be on fire and cooling jets fixed in place by ground monitors were established to protect the surrounding buildings.

Two persons suffering smoke inhalation and one female with shock were taken to hospital.

Crews remained at the scene for the 24 hour period and the police maintained the 200m exclusion zone. Regular meetings were held between the police, fire, ambulance and rail agencies during the incident. The meetings also included the Environment Agency.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Cylinders and particularly acetylene cylinders are very dangerous when involved in fire whether they are empty or full. Firefighters are put at significant risk and it is therefore important that all cylinders are stored and used in accordance with the relevant guidance. The Health & Safety Executive have produced a guidance note which can be accessed through the Internet www.hse.gov.uk/cdg/pdf/safusgc.pdf. The guidance is aimed at anyone who manufactures, owns, fills, repairs or uses gas cylinders at work, and especially at those who own or manage small businesses.

[Dave Dowling]

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Fire Service Slams Bogus Callers

Public urged to be on their guard for fraudsters

The public is being warned to be extra vigilant after a spate of bogus phone calls from people claiming to be from or working on behalf of the Fire & Rescue Service.

The calls appear to be targeting vulnerable people and organisations that are being encouraged to invest large sums of money in supposed good causes or advertising on the basis of a fraudulent connection to the Fire & Rescue Service. Unfortunately, this type of activity is not uncommon and takes advantage of the good reputation of our organisation.

Be aware of the dangers of bogus callers and not to give out personal information nor hand over any money. Please remember that the Fire & Rescue Service would never ask for money from the public.

The advice from ESFRS is:

Please encourage vulnerable neighbours, friends and family members to follow these steps if in doubt whether a call is genuine:

1. Always take a name .
2. Always take a telephone contact number.
3. Never make a payment or commitment without taking time to think about the offer
   (Where the caller or person applies pressure for a quick deal, fails to be cooperative or refuses any information, this behaviour should indicate an unreliable situation).
4. If in doubt inform Trading Standards
   (the Fire and Rescue Service cannot make complaints on behalf of other people).
5. Where the company claims to be working with the 'fire service', please pass the name of the company, their telephone number and details of any offer they have proposed to East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service HQ for the attention of our complaints officer 0845 130 8855.

Remember:
It is extremely unlikely that any activity of the Fire & Rescue Service will involve a request for money, especially through cold calling.

[Dave Dowling]

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New Foam Technology Limits Fire Damage

On 22nd September 2006, Fire Crews were called by builders to a blaze that had started in the roof at Rotherfield Hall. Rotherfield Hall is a large listed building in Treblers Lane, Rotherfield and is undergoing restoration work.

Fire crews using the latest compressed air firefighting foam technology quickly extinguished the blaze. “This foam is fantastic” said Watch commander Bob Beard from Crowborough Community Fire Station, who led the initial firefighting attack. “The fire was beginning to take hold and spread, but we were able to get a quick knock down of the flames and confine the fire to a small area of the roof”.

New Foam technology that reduces water usage and is more environmentally friendly, is being introduced by East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service across East Sussex and Brighton and Hove. Further details of the 1-7 Foam System are available on our Equipment Page.

Four Fire crews from Crowborough, Uckfield, Wadhurst and Heathfield as well as an Aerial Ladder Platform from Eastbourne were called upon to control the incident. Initial investigations point to a defective light fitting as the cause of the fire.

[Dave Sutton]

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Footballing Heroes Help to Save Lives

New football coaching initiatives teach Sussex youth about fire and road safety

Young people in Sussex will now have the chance to learn about fire and road safety from their footballing heroes.

East and West Sussex Fire & Rescue Services have jointly developed a partnership with League One football club Brighton & Hove Albion to offer football-coaching programmes and initiatives to children and young adults that focus on fire safety, arson reduction and road safety.

Called 'Football in the Community', the courses help young people to learn about the dangers of fire and making hoax emergency calls and how to be safe on the county's roads. Albion players and a wide range of football skills are used to keep the young people interested in these important topics.

First team Brighton players Dean Hammond, Joel Lynch and Scott Chamberlain joined the first course which took place at South Malling Primary School in Lewes on Monday 18 September.

Children at the school from age 5 to age 10 took part in the coaching programmes - which are the first of their kind in the UK. They have been developed over the last two years by firefighter Dave Amiet from East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service. Dave, who is also a qualified football coach, takes the young people through a series of footballing skills, each with an important fire and road safety message.

Dave explains: “By talking to young people through the game of football, we're able to break down barriers and they are more willing to listen to what we're trying to say. Football is a great leveller, which anyone - both boys and girls - can enjoy. We want to teach young people about the dangers of fire, the importance of road safety and ultimately, help to save lives in Sussex. At the same time as learning these valuable messages, young people can enjoy a great sport and stay healthy - it's a win-win situation.”

The project, while still in its early stages, has already been trialled at schools, colleges and holiday courses throughout East and West Sussex. From September, the Football in the Community programme will also visit special needs schools and work with social inclusion partnerships which help disadvantaged groups of young people.

Darren Teague, football inclusion project manager for Brighton & Hove Albion FC (also known as The Seagulls), has been working alongside East and West Sussex Fire & Rescue Services to implement the project. He said: “This is a fantastic partnership for Brighton & Hove Albion FC. To be able to work with Fire Service personnel dedicated to saving people's lives is a new experience for me and for the team. I am positive the partnership will be a great success and would like to see other professional clubs follow our initiative.”

Lionel Barnard, West Sussex County Council cabinet member for public safety, said: “By forging this innovative link with the Seagulls, our firefighters are reflecting their policy of playing an increasingly high profile role in a wide range of key community activities, particularly those involving young people.”

The official launch of the programme was at Brighton's game against Crewe FC on Sunday 27 August. First team players and chief executive of Brighton & Hove Albion FC Martin Perry accepted presentation cheques from firefighters representing both East and West Sussex Fire & Rescue Services. The cheques will be used to financially support the Footballing in the Community programme in the future.

[The Priory Partnership]

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Working Smoke Alarms Save Lives

Statistics show that every year in the UK there are 48,000 accidental fires in people's homes, resulting in 327 deaths and 10,000 injuries. Furthermore, official statistics show that smoke alarm ownership amongst Asian communities is 10 percent lower than the national average. A chilling thought when you consider that you are twice as likely to die in a fire if you don't have a working smoke alarm.

The Department for Communities and Local Government today launched a campaign to raise awareness of fire safety issues within Asian communities.

The campaign, which launches just before the festive seasons of Diwali and Eid, aims to ensure that Hindu, Jain, Sikh and Muslim communities celebrating the festivals do so safely. Candle fires increase by over a third during the Diwali period and over 20 percent of deaths caused by candles occur at this time. National statistics show five fires are caused by candles in the home every day. The celebrations all involve an increased amount of cooking and entertaining in the home. National statistics indicate the heightened risk of fire within the kitchen. Nearly 57 percent of all fires in the home are caused by cooking accidents and there are 20 fat pan fires every day in the UK.

Adrian Brown, senior fire safety officer at East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service said: “It is ironic and tragic that during periods of celebration there is a dramatic increase in the number of fires amongst many communities. It’s not only Diwali and Eid, but we also see an increase at Christmas it’s often that safety comes second to celebration. The campaign aims to make communities more aware of their surroundings and ensure that they are actively thinking about fire safety in the home.”

“By taking just a few simple precautions you can greatly reduce the risks for yourself and your family. I would especially urge the celebrating communities to ensure they have a working smoke alarm installed on every floor of their home.”

Adrian Brown, senior fire safety officer at East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service said: “It is ironic and tragic that during periods of celebration there is a dramatic increase in the number of fires amongst many communities. It’s not only Diwali and Eid, but we also see an increase at Christmas it’s often that safety comes second to celebration. The campaign aims to make communities more aware of their surroundings and ensure that they are actively thinking about fire safety in the home.”

“By taking just a few simple precautions you can greatly reduce the risks for yourself and your family. I would especially urge the celebrating communities to ensure they have a working smoke alarm installed on every floor of their home.”

The campaign which will include press and radio advertising, as well as greetings cards and posters carrying safety messages, will begin in mid-September 2006 and will be supported by community activity across England by individual fire and rescue services.

Today's announcement complements other fire safety work undertaken by the DCLG and the fire and rescue service and supports the Government's mainstream ‘Smoke Alarm Maintenance’ campaign, running concurrently.

Further Information.

1. Leaflets providing fire safety information for Diwali and Eid

Leaflets are available from http://www.firekills.gov.uk/celebrate/04.htm.

2. Smoke Alarms…Your First Line of Defence.

Your first line of defence should be a smoke alarm. If there is a fire, a smoke alarm will immediately warn you, giving you and everyone in your home time to escape to safety.

The reality is that smoke suffocates quickly - you could be dead before the flames reach you…so you need to take the following steps to protect your family and your home.

• Fit smoke alarms on the ceiling on each floor level in your home - the best places are top of the staircase, stair landing and between living and sleeping areas (do not fit them in the kitchen).
• Do NOT remove the batteries - if your smoke alarm keeps going off it might be too close to the kitchen
• Test your smoke alarms once a week to make sure the batteries are working.
• If you are buying a new smoke alarm consider a 10-year alarm which will require less frequent battery changes.
• But don't forget that all types of alarms need to be tested once a week.

3. Some general fire safety messages for a safe Diwali and Eid:

When celebrating Diwali, treat the Diya as you would any other flame. Use only enough ghee to last your Puja. If you do need to leave the Diya or candle unattended, make sure that it rests securely on a surface which will not melt or burn. At all times, keep the flame at a safe distance from curtains, furniture and decorations. Long hair and clothing (especially saris, chunris/chunis and dupattas) are also very flammable. Keep the flame out of reach of children and animals. Children should be supervised at all times near flames. Treat fireworks with great caution. Only buy fireworks marked with British Safety Standard 7114 and always read the instructions. When cooking deep-fried food, dry it before you put it in the hot oil. If the oil starts to smoke, turn off the heat and leave the pan to cool. Never fill the pan more than one-third full of oil. Never throw water over the pan.

4. Fire Safety Around the Home:

The Kitchen

• There are around 7,400 fat pan fires in the UK each year, resulting in 32 deaths and 2,600 injuries.
• Never leave karahis and pans unattended on the cooker - a moment's distraction while cooking, being careless with kitchen appliances - it's easy to see why most fires in the home start in the in kitchen.
• When cooking, take care if you're wearing loose clothing as it can easily catch fire.
• If the karahi does catch fire, don't move it and never throw water over it.

Using Candles

• Almost five fires a day are started by candles. A candle flame may be small, but you should treat it as you would any other flame - with care.
• Keep candles away from anything that can catch fire, like furnishings, fabrics, curtains and so on.
• Candles, diyas and tea lights can melt plastic surfaces like the tops of televisions and bath tubs. Make sure you always place them on a heat resistant surface.

[Adrian Brown]

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Car and School Coach Crash at Chailey

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A 999 call was received by ESFRS at two minutes to three on Wednesday 13th September to a road traffic collision between a car and a coach transporting young people on a school trip. Two fire appliances from Barcombe and Lewes attended the incident together with the Heavy Rescue Unit from Uckfield. A SIMCAS Doctor and the Sussex Police helicopter also attended this incident. The Lewes crew provided care to the casualty until the arrival of the ambulance crew. The car had left the road and gone down a bank into a hedge following the collision, and the driver, who was severely trapped, had to be cut free by removing the roof of the car and pushing its dashboard forward away from him. The driver was airlifted by helicopter to Eastbourne District General Hospital, arriving at ten past four. Three young people were also taken to hospital by ambulance.

[Pat Scott]

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Thunder Storms result in over 100 Emergency Calls

As thunder storms and heavy rain swept across East Sussex during Wednesday evening, East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service received over 100 emergency calls between the hours of 7 pm and midnight.

Calls included two lightening strikes on houses and a wide range of local flooding as the rain deluged during perio