Christmas rescues and aid for householders

Fire crews from Dunstable came to the rescue of people in a variety of ways over the Christmas and New Year holiday.

Shortly before 8 pm on December 26th they attended a house in Prince’s Street where burst pipes in the loft had flooded the whole house - and there was a foot of water in the basement - causing a danger of electrocution.

Crew Commander Richard Portlock and colleagues isolated the electric and water supplies and pumped 2,000 litres from the basement.

“When we arrived it was like it was raining indoors,” said CC Portlock.

Later that night they received a call from the police at 01.14 (27th) to rescue a man who had slipped 20 metres down Houghton Pit near French’s Avenue between Dunstable and Houghton Regis.

A firefighter using a rope and harness went down to check the man’s injuries, which appeared to be cuts and bruises, and then helped him clamber back up the slippery slope to waiting paramedics.

“He had been there for an hour so was very cold and because of the snow and ice had been unable to climb back up the bank unaided,” added CC Portlock.

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Issued on behalf of Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service by Manners PR Jacquie Manners 01234 326198

Cutting fire risks in flats and bedsits across county

Pic caption:
l-r (back row) Tim Birchall (BLFRS Service Training Manager) and Paul Fuller (BLFRS Fire Chief)
l-r (front row) David Adams (Luton Borough Council), Nick Costin (Central Bedfordshire Council), John Molyneux (Bedford Borough Council) and Tony Rogers (BLFRS)

Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service (BLFRS) has been working closely with local authorities in Bedford, Luton and Central Bedfordshire, to improve fire safety standards in the rented residential accommodation sector and in particular 'Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) for 2011.

A formal agreement (Memorandum of Understanding) was signed by all partners, following a presentation by Group Commander Tim Birchall who gave a breakdown of the common causes of HMOs fires and explained that by ensuring landlords comply with the relevant fire safety legislation, risks can be reduced significantly in the New Year.

BLFRS works closely with local authorities, housing associations and private landlords to ensure compliance with national fire safety standards. In addition BLFRS provides free home safety checks and will install a smoke alarm where needed. Detailed work to educate and encourage people to make sure their premises meet fire regulations led to the signing of the agreement.

Tim Birchall said: "I believe the work we have done here and continue to do is partnership working at its best and will help to save lives.”

BLFRS Fire Chief, Paul Fuller, added: "The risks of injury and loss of lives in HMOs - flats and bed sits and so on, are much greater for a variety of reasons. I congratulate my team on the work they have done here to reduce those risks to the people of Bedfordshire and Luton."

National Award brings 2010 to a happy conclusion for BLFRS

Pic captions: (1) Top team work together to reduce arson in schools

(2) Left to right signing document
standing left Det Supt David Quarmby Beds Police
seated Head of Resources, Performance and Commissioning William Clapp Luton Borough Council
centre Cllr David Sawyer, Portfolio Holder for Children’s Services Bedford Borough Council
right Head of Capital Development Tim Chaple, Central Bedfordshire Council
standing right Deputy Chief Fire Officer Glen Ranger, Beds and Luton Fire and Rescue Service

Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service (BLFRS) has won a national award for its ground breaking work in reducing school fires by 75%.

The Association of Building Engineers Fire Safety Awards 2010 acknowledges the work carried out by BLFRS in promoting the fitting of sprinklers in schools. In particular the judges praised the partnership work with the three unitary authorities who helped provide valuable data that led to BLFRS in conunction with Beds Police to assess the real risk of arson in schools. That activitiy resulted in the creation of the School Crime and Arson Risk Evaluation (SCARE) project and a Memorandum of Understanding supporting the installation of sprinklers in new schools.

Representatives of all the organisations involved were invited to an awards ceremony in London at the Docklands Hilton Hotel.

Chief Fire Officer Paul Fuller said: “This is an excellent demonstration of how an effective partnership can deliver significant results.”

The lessons learnt during the project are being shared with Fire and Rescue Services across the UK.

Nationally there are more than 1,300 school fires every year - with 7-% of them being attributed to arson. These attacks and damage result in a huge cost in terms of the damage and distruption to schools and the wider community.

Beds Police Detective Sgt David Quamby said: "Since targeting those schools most at risk we have seen a significant fall in arson attacks and other reported crimes on school sites. We have worked closely with our colleagues in the Fire Service and local councils to improve security at schools and this has helped reduce theft, criminal damage and burglary there. The Police rely on the assistance of our partners and the community to help reduce crime and such partnership preventative work is always an excellent use of our resources."

Our well rehearsed crews deal expertly with high rise flat fire

Fire crews from Bedford and Kempston attended a flat fire at Beecham Court in Greyfriars Bedford in the early hours of 29th December 2010

Time of call was 00.57 and four fire engines, the Incident Command Unit and an aerial platform were despatched to what was reported as a fire in the bedroom of a flat on the 5th floor.

An woman occupant had left the flat and fire crews began firefighting immediately - but despite this the property was badly damaged by fire. Due to practised precautions conducted by the fire crews, no smoke or fire spread to other flats and there was no need to evacuate the other residents - instead they were told to stay safely indoors.

The flat below was water damaged, it is believed by the domestic supply during the incident.

Incident Commander Andy Draper said: "The management of the situation by fire crews meant that what could been a very serious incident was dealt with efficiently and effectively with the minimum of distruption to neighbours in the flat. Naturally many were awoken by the activity but were advised to stay in their own flats while we dealt with the situation. Only the gentleman in the flat below was inconvenienced by water coming through his ceiling, from what we think was the domestic water supply from the flat above."

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Santa's arriving on a fire engine !

Santa visits Fire Station

Dunstable Community Fire Station opened its doors and held a Christmas event for the local community which raised £464.34 for the Fire Fighters Charity.

Santa arrived on board a fire engine to help spread seasonal good cheer and fire safety messages to the audience.

Station staff member Sue Heckford, who co-ordinated the event, said: “I would to thank everyone involved. The event could not have happened without the team work in order to make it a successful event for the children and parents.”

Dunstable Community Fire Station is just that - a centre which can be used by the community for events, meetings and activities. Contact Sue in the New Year if you would like to know more on sue.heckford@bedsfire.com.

The event was staged on Sunday 12th December.

Proud to support inspirational young people

caption: Area Commander Tony Rogers of Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service (BLFRS speaking at the awards ceremony.

Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service was proud to be among the sponsors of the fantastic Young People of the Year (Yopey) Awards.

The fifth Bedfordshire and Luton Yopey awards were called the “Bluelight Yopeys” are so called because of the support of BLFRS, Bedfordshire Police and the local ambulance service. As always the awards attracted some outstanding entries. A final ten were selected for the awards ceremony held at The Mansion House, Old Warden Park, near Biggleswade.

The overall winner was Joanna Mayes, aged 19, who was nominated by Aragon Housing Association for her marvellous personal journey - overcoming personal problems prompted by bullying to become a football coach and inspiration to younger people. She was presented with a cheque for £1,000.

Second was Natalie Wilson, aged 23, who despite suffering from Downs Syndrome volunteers to help others almost every day. Natalie, who is from Dunstable, was once a student of Bedford College on a special NVQ course in “employability” skills - so it was fitting that her prize of £500 was presented by the Principal of Bedford College Ian Pryce.

Third prize went jointly to Stephanie Knight, aged 17, who was presented with her prize by the Mayor of Luton Cllr Tom Shaw and Scott Hayhurst, aged 22, who was given his prize by Cllr Peter Hollick of Central Bedfordshire Council.

The Junior Prize of £250 went Mo Ahktar, aged 15 of Luton. He is using rugby to help put others youngsters back on the right track and is a Gold Ambassador for the 2012 Olympics. He was presented with his prize by Area Commander Tony Rogers of Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service (BLFRS).

Said Tony: “This is the first Bluelight Yopey awards in Bedfordshire and last year BLFRS was the first Fire & Rescue Service to sponsor this now UK-wide project. We do much work with young people to keep them safe and hope our association with Yopey will help spread those important messages.”

The remaining five finalists were all also given £50 each thanks to the support of the sponsors: the Bluelight services, Bedford College, Central Beds Council, Luton Borough Council, Blue Arrow and Beds and Luton Community Foundation.

All cash prizes were donated on condition the recipients give half to a worthy cause - and keep half for themselves as a reward.

Nominations for future awards or young volunteers should go to www.yopey.org

New Year Appeal launched for team to support fire service in Kenya

Pic 1 and 2: leaving soon - three fire engines from Beds en route to Kenya
pic 3: Joseph when in UK

Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service crews and support staff are travelling at their own expense to help set up a fire service in Kenya - and have launched a New Year appeal to help fund the trip.

The plan follows the donation of a total of four fire engines to Kenya by the local Combined Fire Authority (CFA). So well received was the first engine and the support given that even the President of Kenya has sent his thanks back to the people of Bedfordshire and to the Chief Fire Officer of Bedfordshire Paul Fuller.

The idea started with a Church related-charity: the Onset Trust and Pastor Douglas Richards of Dunstable Community Church. The church approached BLFRS to ask if it could help them purchase an old fire engine to send out to Meru in Kenya where no fire service existed and deaths from fires are common. The Combined Fire Authority (CFA) members decided they would donate one of their own fire engines which was going out of commission.

Then BLFRS Transport and Engineering Manager and retained firefighter Ray Willett got involved. Only too aware that the fire engine is no use without a mechanic to keep it on the road, he and two colleagues travelled with the vehicle to Meru, Kenya (at their own expense aided by Kenyan Airways). A gruelling but enlightening trip saw Ray and colleagues set up the first ever firefighter training course in 2009. Within days the fire crews had stopped a school fire spreading. Within weeks they had saved the lives of two children. Since then more than 70 fires have been tackled - fires which would otherwise have swept through communities who live closely together in wooden properties.

In 2010 Fred Akandi a Kenyan who is a member of the Dunstable Community Church, and Ray Willett approached the CFA and said they has raised a further £3,000 and could they buy another two fire engines. The CFA went one better and decided to donate three vehicles which were going out of commission to the charity on condition that the £3,000 was used to fund additional community safety initiatives in Kenya.

Chair of the Combined Fire Authority Cllr Sian Timoney said: “Given the small amount of money we could have raised by selling these old vehicles, which are of little use to any UK services, we decided that the fantastic work by Fred, Ray, the charity and colleagues deserved our support.”

These three vehicles will go to Mombasa, Meru and Maua and will be followed later in 2011 by Ray and a party of 24 volunteers including two Paramedics and five Community Fire Safety Officers who will run training programmes and spread the community safety word.

CFO Paul Fuller said: “The sort of community fire safety work which we perhaps take for granted in this country does not exist in other parts of the world. There are no construction regulations to make buildings fire proof, there are no smoke detectors. I am thankful to the CFA for allowing us to make use of these defunct fire engines and proud that my staff are raising their own travel costs to travel to Kenya.”

Anyone who would like to make a donation to help the fund can do so at: Lloyds TSB, 34 High St, Bedford, MK40 1SB, Account No 40793768, Sort Code 30-90-66

(Photos from official hand over by BLFRS to charity December 2011)

Sitting on the dock of the bay...Joseph Githuka Njoroge was waiting for a day’s work at the docks in 2008 - when he was offered a job which would change his life.

He was asked to drive a fire truck from the ship taking with him three men from England who had come to show local folk how to crew and maintain a fire engine. By they time they reached their destination Joseph had volunteered to be a trainee.

“It was a lucky day for us - without Joseph we wouldn’t have made such a success of the project,” said Ray Willett.

After the success of setting up a fire service in Meru with the use of the old fire engine, Joseph was clearly at the top of the ladder. He was invited over to the UK as a guest of BLFRS to undertake nearly seven weeks training to learn skills which he is now sharing back in Kenya.

(Photo shows Joseph in the UK Spring 2010)

www.fireengines4kenya.co.uk

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Issued by BLFRS PRO Jacquie Manners 07971 216014

Offset Charity contact is Julian Richards 0777 425 7153

Film footage of three vehicles available from:

*Olly Palmer Dunstable Community Church
Ofc 01442 232432
Mob 07717847323
olly.palmer@mcwe.co.uk

Santa 999 style aboard fire engine

Dunstable Community Fire Station is being turned into a Santa’s Grotto on Sunday 12th December from 12pm to 4pm in aid of The Fire Fighters’ Charity.

There will also be a Christmas Raffle with prizes like lunch for two at The Mansion House, Old Warden Park, near Biggleswade.

Firefighter Simon Stanton is swapping his uniform for a Santa Claus outfit for the day and will arriving from the North Pole on a Fire Engine.

Santa’s Grotto will be upstairs at the station and the adjoining Lecture Theatre will used for people waiting to see Santa. Whilst waiting there will be table activities badge making and colouring.

Refreshments will be available.

Southern Area Community Safety Manager Terry Daniels from will be giving advice on the safe use of Christmas candles and tree lights.

Notes to Editors - if you want to talk to Santa Simon he is on 07890 515973

Fire & Rescue Service celebrating the contribution the young make to Luton

'I am more than ...', a new campaign to challenge negative stereotypes of young people and celebrate their contribution to the town, has been launched by SoLUTiONs

The campaign, funded by Luton's Community Safety Partnership, aims to improve public confidence and perceptions of safety. Some people feel afraid if they see groups of young people hanging around the streets and this is often compounded by negative media portrayal.

'I am more than ...' sets out to reassure the public that the vast majority of young people do not engage in antisocial behaviour or commit crime, and to create understanding and dialogue between different generations.

Young people from the town helped to launch the event with a performance demonstrating the positive contribution they make to the town and how important it is to develop understanding and help each other, regardless of age.

Cllr Joan Bailey, Portfolio Holder for Community Cohesion, said: "Luton is full to the brim with exceptional young people who go out of their way to help their local community. But so often, these young people are unfairly stereotyped by adults' unfair perceptions or images of them.

"Nobody gains when young people are treated differently as a result of misconceptions. As a community we should be recognising and celebrating the talents and achievements of our young people, and helping them to make the most of their skills."

The campaign will be high profile and high impact featuring regular positive stories in the media and online. People of all ages are encouraged to send in positive stories about young people involved in charity or voluntary work; or contributing in some way to their local community; or perhaps they are artistically or academically gifted or bringing pleasure or help to others; or they may have turned their lives
around for the better; or they may be carers - the list of possibilities goes on and on.

So if you know a young person who deserves to be recognised, please tell us about them so we can share it with others - see www.luton.gov.uk/iammore or call Michele Brawley on 01582 546231.

* 'I am more than' is a campaign by SoLUTiONs, Luton's Community
Safety Partnership including Luton Borough Council, Luton and
Bedfordshire Police, NHS Luton, Bedfordshire Probation Trust and Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service working in partnership with Luton's Herald and Post.

* Look out for 'I am more than ...' lamppost banners and
advertisements appearing around the town.

Fire & Rescue supports partnership in Luton

photo caption: Southern Area Commander Dave Fothergill and SOS Bus

SoLUTiONs, Luton's Community Safety Partnership, held its second public summit to update residents on the progress in reducing crime and antisocial behaviour over the past year. It also gave residents a chance to meet representatives from agencies such as the Council, Police, Probation, NHS and Fire & Rescue.

Undeterred by the grim weather forecast, over 250 local people attended the event to hear about SoLUTiONs' activities and priorities for the coming year, and to voice ideas and any concerns.

Levels of crime in Luton have reduced substantially over the past three years, dropping by 17 per cent from 2007/08 to 2008/09 and by a further 11 per cent from 2008/09 to 2009/10. During the past year, Luton has experienced the lowest levels of crime seen in the three year time period.

SoLUTiONs has delivered or commissioned a range of initiatives to reduce and prevent crime and antisocial behaviour across the town. Bitesize presentations outlined particular projects such as Project Turnaround helping prevent young people offending or becoming involved in antisocial behaviour; the Independent Domestic Violence Advisor Service offering a wide range of practical safety options for victims of domestic abuse to ensure their long-term safety; the SOS Bus Luton located in St George's Square every Friday and Saturday night helping people who are victims of crime, vulnerable, lost, injured or unwell; and Operation Vision, a campaign to boost public safety, satisfaction and confidence in Bedfordshire Police.

Priorities for the soLUTiONs partnership include targeting the town centre and other crime hotspots; focusing on young offenders and vulnerable victims of crime; drugs and alcohol; reducing reoffending and tackling the fear of crime. Group workshops discussed actions and ideas to drive priorities along.

SoLUTiONs, Luton's Community Safety Partnership, is a partnership of organisations including the Council, Police, NHS, Probation and Fire & Rescue services working together to address crime, antisocial behaviour, drug and alcohol problems and (re)offending behaviour in the town. Its vision is to make Luton a safer place in which to live, work, learn and have fun.

For more information please contact Michèle Brawley, Community Safety Partnership Support Officer, on 01582 546231 or email michele.brawley@luton.gov.uk or go to www.luton.gov.uk/solutions

Young actors add drama to road traffic demonstration

Keeping people safe on the roads in winter is the work of councils, police and firefighters.

To dramatically bring home the dangers of driving under the influence of drink or drugs, or taking insufficient care on the wintry roads, a road traffic accident reconstruction was staged by firefighters, police and ambulance on St Paul’s Square in Bedford from 7.30 pm on Saturday 27th November.

Fire crews, trained in using powerful cutting equipment to dismantle vehicles, took a car apart allowing access to the trapped “victims”. Bedfordshire Police then “arrested” the driver and “breathalysed” the driver. The driver and victims were played by actors from Biddenham Upper School which, supported by Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service, has produced a number of theatre productions related to road and fire safety. Specialist make-up depicting injuries was the Bedford College theatrical department.

The event can be viewed on-line at www.local-news.tv

Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service Northern Area Commander Tony Rogers said : “We have carried out these demonstrations in previous years in Ampthill and Biggleswade - they are very effective in bringing home to onlookers the reality of being in a car accident caused by drink driving, speeding or simple carelessness. We expect a big crowd for this show.

“Fire crews rescue seven times as many people from wrecked car as they do from burning business - so making people drive safer is important to our organisation.”

Beds Police will be continuing Operation Jackdaw doing roadside tests for drink driving during coming months. They will also be giving out wrist bands to “designated drivers” entitling them to free soft drinks in participating pubs and clubs in Bedford and Luton.

Bedfordshire Police’s annual clampdown on drink/drug driving is led by from the Roads Policing Unit. It is Codenamed Operation Jackdaw and under this police will be doing roadside tests for drink driving during coming weeks. They will also be giving out wrist bands to “designated drivers” entitling them to free soft drinks in participating pubs and clubs in Bedford and Luton.

Chief Inspector Jane Aspin said:“We take driving under the influence of drink or drugs extremely seriously and are stepping up our patrols during the Christmas period. Our aim is to breathalyse more drivers than ever before during this campaign and if you drive whilst over the limit it is only be a matter of time before you are caught.

“We will increasing both high visibility patrols and covert patrols, including our ANPR teams, to catch drink drivers. We are also using Bluetooth technology to send text messages to enabled mobile phones giving anti-drink drive messages.

“We are urging those going to Christmas parties to ensure they have a designated driver. To help we are offering wristbands to designated drivers and they will receive free soft drinks in selected pubs in the Town Centre. Proof that they are the designated driver is needed. Officers on Friday and Saturday nights will be patrolling car parks around the town to offer the bands to the drivers that they see.”

“Collisions involving alcohol devastate the lives of victims and their families and ruin the lives of offenders, who could face a lengthy driving ban or imprisonment and have to live with the lifelong guilt of having killed or injured someone through their reckless behaviour. Offenders can also lose their job, home and their livelihood,”

“If you know someone who is about to drive under the influence of drink or drugs we actively pursue any information we receive. Call 01234 841212, or text to 07786 200011 or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.”

Bedford Borough Councillor Colleen Atkins, Executive member Bedfordshire and Luton Combined Fire Authority, said: "Drink driving appears to increase over the Christmas festivity period. Working with our partners, we want to reduce road traffic accidents and the tragedy of death. We hope that by seeing someone being cut out of a crashed car will bring the message home to drivers not to drink and drive, not only during the festive period, but throughout the year and therefore reduce the number of people being needlessly injured in road traffic collisions.”

Cllr David McVicar, Portfolio Holder for Safer Communities and Healthier Lifestyles, Central Bedfordshire Council said: "By working with our partners we hope to raise awareness of the dangers of driving while under the influence of alcohol particularly at Christmas time when this offence appears to increase. By focussing on this issue we aim to reduce drink driving not only during the festive period, but throughout the year and therefore reduce the number of people being needlessly injured in road traffic collisions.”

Statistics from Amey for Bedfordshire and Luton:

75% (256) of drivers involved in injury collisions who failed a roadside breath test between 1/1/2004 – 31/12/2009 were under the age of 40.

These collisions resulted in 372 casualties. In 26% (66) of these collisions, the driver was recorded as uninjured but these collisions had caused injury to 88 other people – 2 of which were fatal.

National Statistic:
“If you drive at twice the legal alcohol limit you are at least 30 times more likely to cause a road crash, than a driver who hasn't been drinking.” http://www.dft.gov.uk/think/focusareas/driving/drinkdriving?whoareyou_id=&page=Overview

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Issued on behalf of all participating partners and agencies by Manners PR for Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service. www.bedsfire.com Jacquie Manners (01234) 326198

Notes to Editors:

Amey is a leading provider of public services. The company takes a unique approach to the design, management, and maintenance of the UK’s vital assets and services such as transport, roads, railways, bridges, schools, airports, public spaces, and offices. Amey has a proven track record in delivering outstanding stand-alone services, as well as pioneering a leading integrated service model. This means we have the unique ability to integrate our offering both horizontally, across different services, and vertically, from design to delivery.

Fire crews provide emergency aid to A & E department in power failures

Fire crews used equipment made available for major chemical decomtamination incidents to provide power, shelter, light and heat at Luton Hospital A & E after power problems were reported on Tuesday 30th November.

When the hospital experienced some power outages, staff there asked Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service for help.

BLFRS Southern Area Commander Dave Fothergill, Station Commander Kevin Moores from Stopsley and colleagues decided to make this equipment available to make sure patients and paramedics had a reserve location at the A & E. Working with consultants and A & E they had the facilities made available should the situation worsen.

The tents, which are actually units for showering off chemical contamination, are part of a catalogue of items which make up a regional and national jigsaw of equipment used by fire crews to deal with a range of major incidents.

AC Fothergill said: "This demonstrates good dynamic response thinking - we have this equipment to use ostensibly for chemical jobs - but in fact was useful for helping the hospital on this bitterly cold afternoon, evening and all through the night."

The crews left the scene Wednesday morning (1st December)

Fire Service links with 18,000 students in Bedford

Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service supported the Bedford College Achievements Evening by sponsoring the Sport & Public Services awards category.

BLFRS has close links with the College and its students who are a gateway to the wider and diverse community of Bedfordshire.

On 25th November, a packed Bedford Corn Exchange heard how its student successes are in the top 5 % in the country.

Soon after achieving its Outstanding Ofsted status, Bedford took over Shuttleworth College in Central Beds. That merger has become a model for how to integrate twvery different colleges and improve the standards and services of both.

The College has secured £2 Million to redevelop the workshop block on the Cauldwell Street campus, its new BROOKS hair and and beauty opened on the High Street and The Mansion House at Shuttleworth was relaunched as a quality conference and weddings venue.

Bedford College has won the right to use the Olympic logo - which was particularly apt as the Outstanding Student of the Year was 2012 hopeful sprinter Deji Tobias, who is the fastest under 20 year old in the UK. Deji is taking a BTEC National Diploma in Sports Development, Coaching and Fitness.

School links

Together with the Bedford Charity, Bedford College is one of the sponsors of the Bedford Academy which is one of the few secondary schools in the UK to be awarded millions of pounds for a new building project. More than 900 pupils from upper schools attend vocational courses at the College.

Business boost

Working closely with local employers to help ensure students have the right skills for employment is key to the contribution the College makes to the local economy. “We are an engine for growth for the local economy,” said Principal and Chief Executive Ian Pryce, “We want Bedford College to be a badge of honour on the CVs of students when they apply for employment.”

The support by local businesses, hundreds of whom work with the College, was demonstrated by the commercial sponsorship of the prizes at the Achievements Ceremony.

What would you do if.....

Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue is supporting a campaign to encourage the public to “be prepared” for emergencies.

Called “What would you do if...” the project has been promoted via local media and a postcard campaign.

As part of the promotional activity a visit to a Fire Station has been offered as a prize in a competition which runs until 10th December 2010.

Entries can be made on line via the website www.whatwouldyoudoif.co.uk

The campaign is being run under the banner of the Beds and Luton Local Resilience Forum which is one of a network of multi agency organisations across the UK. Under these LRFs fire and rescue service work with police and ambulance and other agencies to prepare for emergencies which can impact upon the wider community - such as floods, long term power failures and so on.

“When confronted with flooding people will often dial 999 and ask for the Fire and Rescue Service. The service will respond if lives are at risk from flooding, for instance if there is the danger of electrocution or a elderly person is trapped in their home.

“However protection of property remains the responsibility of homeowners who should, if they are in a flood risk area, have their own stock of sand bags or the modern equivalent.”

Fire and Rescue Service gets tough on tobacco as cause of house fires

Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service and other local agencies joined forces yesterday to launch the Luton Tobacco Control Partnership (LTCP).

The partnership aims to improve the health and quality of life for local adults and children and is encouraging comments on a draft five year strategy.

The strategy covers 2011-2015 and sets out measures to prevent peoplle taking up smoking, motivating and helping them to quit and protecting communities and families from the harm caused by tobacco.

Consultation on the draft strategy runs until 17th December 2011 and comments are welcome.

Tobacco is one of the most challenging public health issues it
causes around 246 deaths in Luton every year, impacts negatively on the local economy and contributes to social problems. It is estimated that 40, 278 people in Luton smoke: that's about 1 in 5.

In the last year, tobacco-related materials were linked to 111
local fires.

Community Safety Manager Terry Daniels joined the launch to represent the interests of BLFRS in discouraging cigarette-related fires.

Download a copy of the strategy and consultation questionnaire from
www.luton.nhs.uk or www.luton.gov.uk/LTCP

For more information or a draft copy of the strategy for comment,
contact Olena Sawal, Luton Tobacco Control Partnership Coordinator on 01582 532 056 or email olena.sawal@luton-pct.nhs.uk

Partnership members include the Council, NHS Luton, Luton Community Services, Bedfordshire Pre- School Learning Alliance,Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service, Luton and Dunstable Hospital Trust, Luton Drug and Alcohol Partnership,Integrated Youth Service, British Heart Foundation, Bedfordshire & Luton Education Business Partnership, South Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust(SEPT) and NHS Bedfordshire - Oral Health team.

The charity QUIT, which presented a lively and interactive session on tobacco facts at the launch, has now visited all secondary schools in Luton to highlight tobacco-related issues to young people.

Winter warning - stay safe

Christmas - celebrate with caution says Fire and Rescue Service

Tis the season to be merry - but make sure you and your guests stay safe and well.

*Having a party? Make sure there are plenty of ashtrays inside or that people outside don’t put drop lit cigarettes in wheelie bins or on piles of wrapping paper near the back door

*Guests staying the night? Make sure everyone knows how to get out or where door keys are kept in case of fire in the night

*Lights, candles - take action ! Keep Christmas candles away from furnishings and over hanging decorations. Switch off Christmas lights at night.

*Stuck for that special gift? Buy and fit someone a smoke alarm - it could save their life.

Winter Warnings

When winter draws near so do additional dangers from fire in the home.

Bedfordshire and Luton FIre and Rescue Service is warning people to take care as the temperatures drop.

*Check your electric blanket is safe - old and worn ones should be replaced.

* Traditional open fires and more fashionable log burning fires are more popular now fuel prices are rising. Be sure to have your chimney swept before lighting up.

* Portable heaters pulled out of the cupboard in winter should be kept away from fabrics and furnishings and unplugged at night

* Power cuts - always keep a battery torch handy - and take care with candles and tea lights at ALL times

*Always have a working smoke alarm - if you cannot fit your own the Fire and Rescue Service will do it for you call 0800 043 5042

Warning over train track fire

Firefighters were called to deal with a fire alongside the railway track off Belmont Road, Flitwick on the evening of November 3rd. Smoke was drifting across the tracks which were busy with commuter trains.

A 999 call was received at 19.02 and two crews from Ampthill, followed a crew from Toddington, were despatched.

Rail authorities closed down the tracks and isolated power whilst firefighters used high pressure hoses to put out a fire which had stretched along 40 metres of trees and hedgerow. Crews were at the scene for an hour.

Station Commander Andy Draper who attended the incident said it was believed the fire was started by children or young people: “Without the fast action of crews the fire would have spread to a larger wooded area of bigger trees which could have caused the rail tracks to be closed for longer.

“Special safety measures have to be taken to allow fire crews to work alongside the track - and this includes stopping trains which is a great inconvenience to many people.

“It goes without saying that playing near railway lines is dangerous and playing with fire, just a deadly. We hope that parents remind their children to play safe so they stay safe.”

Multi-agency response to chemical drama at Luton

999 teams put into practise procedures they have rehearsed when a call to the Hockwell Ring area of Luton looked as though it could be a serious chemical incident.

Police responding to a report of a possible burglary at an address in Acworth Crescent found an overwhelming smell of chemicals coming from a sealed door at the two-storey flats.

At 10am police called Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service, who are the first line of defence for such incidents, and upon arriving firefighters decided to request an expert chemical incident evaluation by a HazMat (Hazardous Materials) Officer.

The situation at Acworth Crescent, combined with background intelligence from Police, led officers in charge to fear this could be a case of “chemical suicide” - where household cleaning materials are combined to create a deadly cocktail of gasses. This are increasingly common and information is easily accessible on the internet.

As a precaution homes in the same block were evacuated - and an evacuation centre was set up nearby with the help of the St John Ambulance and other agencies. This was the minimum evacuation zone which was chosen to reduce disruption to the neighbourhood.

Chemical decontamination equipment held by BLFRS was sent to the scene (disrobe and shower units) in case they were required - and experts from the national decontamination unit were called.

Police and ambulance crews stood by.

Emergency crews in protective chemical suits went into the building at approximately 2 pm. They found a scenario similar to the “chemical suicide” but no person or body.

After making the scene safe all 999 crews left the scene at approximately 5 pm. Police were continuing to seek the occupant of the house.

Group Commander Chris Adams who is the HazMat officer said: “This had all the hallmarks of a chemical suicide. If this had been the case deadly poisons could have been in the air and would have killed anyone going in unprotected. Our first priority is to minimise the risk to the public nearby and to the First Responders so we have to take all precautions. The teamwork achieved as a result of previous rehearsals with various multi-agency partners such as Police and Ambulance worked well. And the support agencies who put together the evacuation unit were very efficient.”

Area Commander Tony Rogers: “In such cases we have to be prepared for the worst case scenario. I congratulate the team on a well thought through approach causing the minimum amount of disruption to the neighbourhood.”

Keep safe on the roads this winter

photo caption: Firefighters rescue seven times as many people from wrecked cars as they do from burning buildings

Winter car check-up at Luton Fire Station
Car owners in Luton can get a free winter car check-up on Saturday 6th November to help them prepare for possible colder weather ahead.

The Luton Borough Council's road safety team is offering this service at Luton Fire Station, in Studley Road, from 10am-3pm.

The checks that will be made include fluid levels and the condition of windscreen wipers, lights, indicators and tyres.

Drivers will also get a 'check sheet' advising them about any defects that need repair, as well as information about safer winter driving.

Cllr Dave Taylor, Portfolio Holder for road safety, said: "Our road safety officers will be on hand throughout the day to advise motorists about the importance of having regular vehicle servicing.

"Drivers may not realise, for instance, that they could end up with a hefty fine plus penalty points of up to three points per tyre if caught with illegal tread. There is even the possibility of losing your driving licence.

"More importantly, having sufficient tyre tread and correct pressures is vital for safe grip, handling and optimum braking."

The event is supported by the Bedfordshire Fire & Rescue Service.

Representatives from Autoglass will also be in attendance to offer free windscreen repair - and faulty windscreen wipers can be replaced at a cost.

For more information, please contact Luton's road safety team on 01582 54 62 63.

Fire crews stop blaze spreading from one semi to another in Luton

Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service attended a fire on October 31st, at Telscombe Way, Luton.

Station Commander Steven Allen, who was in charge at the scene, said: “The fire crews did a good job in stopping the fire spreading to the adjoining property.”

Four fire engines and the Aerial Platform were used to combat the blaze which began as a small electrical fire and spread to the roof.

Winter Warnings from Fire Service

When winter draws near so do additional dangers from fire in the home.

Bedfordshire and Luton FIre and Rescue Service is warning people to take care as the temperatures drop.

*Check your electric blanket is safe - old and worn ones should be replaced.

* Traditional open fires and more fashionable log burning fires are more popular now fuel prices are rising. Be sure to have your chimney swept before lighting up.

* Portable heaters pulled out of the cupboard in winter should be kept away from fabrics and furnishings and unplugged at night

* Power cuts - always keep a battery torch handy - and take care with candles and tea lights at ALL times

*Always have a working smoke alarm - if you cannot fit your own the Fire and Rescue Service will do it for you call 0800 043 5042

Fireworks - take care

Chief Fire Officer Paul Fuller says: “Every year somewhere in the UK people are injured by fireworks. This is the beginning of a long season for fireworks and candlelit celebrations across a range of cultures represented in Beds and Luton.

“On November 5th we recommend families go to organised displays. If you must have your own display then ALWAYS follow the Firework Code on the box.

“Injuries and upset are also caused by people misusing fireworks by letting them off in public places at inappropriate times of the day and night. They are dangerous and should be treated with caution.

“These words of warning extend to everyone using fireworks to celebrate whether it is Diwali or the later Chinese New Year.”

Christmas - celebrate with caution

Tis the season to be merry - but make sure you and your guests stay safe and well.

*Having a party? Make sure there are plenty of ashtrays inside or that people outside don’t put drop lit cigarettes in wheelie bins or on piles of wrapping paper near the back door

*Guests staying the night? Make sure everyone knows how to get out or where door keys are kept in case of fire in the night

*Lights, candles - take action ! Keep Christmas candles away from furnishings and over hanging decorations. Switch off Christmas lights at night.

*Stuck for that special gift? Buy and fit someone a smoke alarm - it could save their life.

Praying with Fire

Pic caption: The Bishop of Bedford, the Rt Revd Richard Inwood, Revd Barbara Johnson and BLFRS Chief Fire Officer Paul Fuller.

Over 100 people attended the Commissioning and Licensing ceremony for Revd Barbara Johnson as Service Chaplain for Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service at Kempston Fire Station.

The Bishop of Bedford, the Rt Revd Richard Inwood said:
“A great partnership has been established with BLFRS and we hope this will be a model for other chaplaincies.”

Chief Fire Officer Paul Fuller added:

“Barbara, on behalf of BLFRS we welcome you to the continuation and development of your role as our Service Chaplain and assure you of our full commitment and support.”

Addressing guests at the ceremony, Revd Barbara Johnson said:

“Thank you for coming this afternoon - it is wonderful to be part of your family here at BLFRS. A huge thank you for this wonderful support. It is such a joy to be here in this place with those who work to save others.”

More about the chaplaincy.....

The Reverend Barbara Johnson, retired Civil Servant and serving Church of England minister formally became the Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service's in house 'vicar' on 15th October when she was licensed as their Service Chaplain at Kempston Fire Station.

In what is believed to be a first, the Bishop of Bedford conducted the ceremony, which would normally take place in a church or chapel, emphasising Barbara's role at the heart of the fire service community.

Barbara has acted as chaplain since 2006, but this formal recognition of her role is a step forward. Barbara will be there for the fire crews and support staff in good and bad times and will even conduct weddings and baptisms with the permission of local clergy.

Barbara’s role as the co-ordinating chaplain for the organisation, means she is a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, a friend in need in the good times and the bad. She regularly visits the HQ at Kempston, the Kempston Fire Station, the Bedford Fire Station, the Northern Area Office and the offices at Mile Road. She has only one other chaplain, Reverend Sue Chapman, who visits the Luton Fire Station and Southern Area Office, but is keen to recruit further volunteer chaplains to cover the other 14stations.

She has already conducted two wedding blessings for BLFRS staff and has been asked to carry out two baptisms in the near future.

During her chaplaincy role she has conducted the BLFRS Christmas Celebration service at Woburn Parish Church, preached at the UK Firefighters' Memorial Service at St Bartholomew the Great in London, dedicated a memorial garden at Sandy Fire Station, been on the touchline at the Rugby Cup Final and represented BLFRS at a number of national events. She was recently appointed Vice Chair of the Fire and Rescue Service Chaplain's Association.

Chief Fire Officer Paul Fuller said: “BLFRS is here to serve everyone and we try to reflect all those communities within the organisation. Barbara is a Christian Chaplain but she is there for all without exception, those of all faiths and none.”

The Bishop of Bedford, the Rt Revd Richard Inwood, said: “Barbara's licensing is recognition that the Church and the Fire Service recognise the real value of her support for all the men and women who risk their lives daily or who support them in this task.”

Barbara, aged 65, worked for 37 years in personnel management in the Civil Service and in retirement took up theological studies at St John's College Nottingham, being awarded a BA in Theology in Ministry. It was during that time that she felt called to ordination to the priesthood and more particularly to ministry in the workplace. She has been a Curate at St John the Baptist Royston and an Assistant Curate at St Mary's Goldington in Bedford.

“I always felt called to ministry in the workplace. I am terrified of fire but when asked which chaplaincy I felt closest to it had to be the Fire and Rescue Service, having been visiting the Stevenage Fire Station when two fire-fighters were so tragically killed fighting a fire in a high rise block of flats. I thought 'That is where I need to be - out there where people are risking their lives to save others'.

Listening to Luton

Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service is supporting a Jobs and Opportunities Fair in Luton.

The newly refurbished Hockwell Ring Community Centre is the venue for the event on Wednesday 27th October.

This event is part of the "Your Say, Your Way" initiative with Luton Borough Council, police, health and Fire and Rescue Services, voluntary and community groups who work in partnership to enable residents to set local priorities and have their say about what goes on in the area in which they live.

Accessing the job market is seen as an important priority by the local community in Leagrave and the Jobs and Opportunities Fair will help people prepare to do just that.

The event will point people in the right direction and offer information about job opportunities, apprenticeships, business start up support, and getting back into education. There will also be experts on hand offering help with CVs, job applications and interview preparation. For those wanting to give something back to the local community, volunteer agencies will be available to answer questions.

Cllr Mohammed Ashraf, Executive Member with responsibility for the Council's Community Development Service, said: "Events such as this are very important in the current climate. Putting local people of all ages in touch with job opportunities and helping to prepare them to compete in a competitive job market is vital. Encouraging our young people to be aspirational and think positively about their future is particularly important."

The fair is free and everyone is welcome from 10am until 4pm. To
register your place or for more details, please contact Emma Hunter on 01582 556692 or Emma Purkiss on 01582 548233.

For further details on the Your Say, Your Way project, please see
www.luton.gov.uk/neighbourhood

BLFRS is looking out for Luton's heroes

Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service is among those supporting the Luton’s Best 2010 Awards.

Businesses and public sector organisations have come together in “Recognising Community Achievement”

The categories range from the Luton in Harmony Award sponsored by BP to Community Project of the Year sponsored by London Luton Airport. BLFRS is sponsoring the “Outstanding Act of Bravery” award.

Full details on www.luton.gov.uk/lutonsbestawards

Cleaning up with fire service

National car wash event - in Bedfordshire

Why take your car to a car wash when you get Firefighters to do the job for you - and help a national charity?

Chief Fire Officer Paul Fuller and Firefighters from Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service (BLFRS) will be reaching for sponges and buckets on 1, 2 and 10 October and washing cars in exchange for donations to The Fire Fighters Charity.

Everyone is invited to come along to the Fire Stations with the promise of a gleaming car, the chance to raise much needed funds for the UK’s fire charity, and to take away important fire safety messages.

Fire Stations taking part:
Friday 1 October
Toddington

Saturday 2 October
Potton
Sandy (CFO Paul Fuller attending)
Stopsley (CFO Paul Fuller attending)

Sunday 10 October
Bedford

This national event sees Firefighters across the UK washing cars to raise funds for The Fire Fighters Charity.

The charity and firefighters are being sponsored by Autoglym car shampoo to make sure vehicles leave with a professional shine.

Group Commander Andy Peckham, The Fire Fighters Charity Secretary, Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service, says:

“The commitment of our firefighters and staff to fundraising is incredible and raises vital funds for a variety of projects . This fundraiser for The Fire Fighters Charity gives us a fantastic opportunity to meet people from our communities and promote important Community Fire Service initiatives.

"Whether washing cars or firefighting we are always keen to get our safety messages across to the public.

"And one sure way for people to support their local Firefighters is through the national charity fundraisers where their money is always put to good use."

Fighting fire throughout night in Maulden

Firefighters are still at the scene (11 am 23/09/10) of a fire in 200 bales of hay at Kings Farm, Limbersy Lane, Maulden, Beds.

999 calls were received from 20.17 onwards on 22.09/10 and crews from Ampthill, Shefford and Kempston first attended.

Crews battled to stop the blaze spreading to a brick built barn. Firefighters from Potton, Luton and Dunstable took over during the night and now a crew from Toddington is at the scene.

An inspection will be made shortly to ascertain if the fire is completely out and it is safe for Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service to withdraw.

Awards Evening September 2010

Pic(1) Denver Donaldson
Pic(2)Tony Harris

Chief Fire Officer Paul Fuller thanked staff for their dedication and professionalism at the Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service annual awards ceremony at the Addison Centre, Kempston on Tuesday 21st September.

The guests included the High Sheriff of Bedfordshire Daniel Hanbury, MPs Richard Fuller and Kelvin Hopkins, leading councillors and VIPs, as well as the families of firefighters and former long-serving Fire Chief Reg Haley.

CFO Fuller told them:

“Ahead of us are times where we will have to be prudent, innovative and more efficient - in the past you have expected a first class Fire and Rescue Service, please CONTINUE to expect a first class service. When you need us we will be there.”

The Lord Lieutenant of Bedfordshire Sir Samuel Whitbread KCVO JP presented ten fire service personnel with the Fire Brigade Long Service and Good Conduct Medal as well as other awards and trophies. His assistant in the role was a young uniformed fire cadet from Sandy: Shaun Dreyer

Chair of the Combined Fire Authority Cllr Sian Timoney praised the work of BLFRS by pointing to some of the highlights of the organisation’s work:

* fires in schools reduced by 75% compared to 2003 thanks to the preventative work of BLFRS

* sponsorship of the Young People of the Year Awards - the first FRS in the UK to support these awards which have been recognised by the new Prime Minister

* 15,500 free smoke detectors fitted in homes across Bedfordshire and Luton in the last year

* a series of 999 road safety days demonstrating police, fire and ambulance working together to save young lives

Retained Firefighter Peter Hailes was the announcer for the evening. A Town Crier in Leighton Buzzard, Peter is an experienced public speaker.

The BLFRS colour party was led by Station Commander Andy Draper.

Musical interludes were by the Bedford Choral Society.

Presentations of 20 year Long Service Medals:

(Jim Cliffe)
Mark Howey
Christopher Roast
David Stevens
CC Stuart Young
WC Darren Chambers
SC John Belcher
SC Guy Munno
SC Lorraine Moore
SC Ade Yule

Presentations of 25 year Long Service Medals:

WC Paul Barrows
AC Jon Roberts

Certificate in Fire Service Operations and Safety
Thomas Warner

Certificate in Fire Service Operations, Safety and Management
Mark Connelly

Fire Engineering Safety Science and Safety awards
Darren Cook

Strategic HR Management
Jason Tai
(Nerys Church)

EDEXCEL NVQ in Fire Safety
Jeremy Gibson

Assessors and Verifiers
Darren Cook and Lorraine Moore

Fellow of the Association of Building Engineers
GC John Foolkes

Foundation Degree in Child and Adolescent Studies
Marlika Anderson

City and Guilds
Garry Braddock

Tom Smylie Memorial Trophy donated by Mrs Isabella Smylie in memory of her late husband:

Ray Willett was presented with this trophy for his “substantial” work and effort in helping to develop the fire service in Meru, Kenya and in doing so helping to promote BLFRS nationally and internationally.

Transport and Engineering Manager and retained firefighter, Ray travelled with colleagues at their own expense to help train a team in Meru to use and maintain a fire engine donated by BLFRS. When team leader firefighter Joseph Githuka Njoroge came to the UK, Ray organised an extensive programme of training activities. Ray lives in Gamlingay.

Unsung Heroes Award

The “Steamer” group from the Biggleswade area who maintain and show an old horse drawn steam fire engine - visiting shows around the county and giving fire safety advice to the public and collecting funds for the Fire Fighters Charity:

Ollie Curtis, Andy Livesy, Charlie Mattin, Gareth Mattin, Sue Ruane, Paul Webb and Eddie Wing.

Chief Fire Officer’s Certificate of Commendation

Off-duty Stopsley, Luton firefighter Amy Summerfield who helped to save the life of a man who had collapsed while playing football on 10th March at Vauxhall Motors recreation ground in Luton. Aided by staff from the centre, Amy administered a life-saving “defib machine” shock to the casualty.

Chief Fire Officer’s Letter of Congratulation

To those who assisted a man injured in a road traffic collision in June this year. An ambulance crew were aided by a passing Dr and Occupational Health Nurse, plus two members of the public, one of whom had used a car extinguisher to put a fire under the damanged car bonnet. Two off duty police officers also joined the team and remained in the vehicle until fire crews arrive to cut free the victim. The victim was taken away by Air Ambulance.

Jerry Burnie, James Callow, Ruth Connelly, Helen Green, Dr Christiane Harris and Lisa Ward.

Fundraising Award
In recognition of their work in supporting the Fire Fighters Charity: David Ashpole and Jason Tai representing Bedford Fire Station.

Award for Endeavour

Donated by former Dep CFO Jagtar Singh for those that show commitment to colleagues. Dunstable firefighters Chris Luscombe and Simon Stanton in recognition of their “Whole Way Round” event which raised money for charity. They travelled 3,500 miles around Britain to collect cash for Marie Curie Cancer Care and FFC.

Chief Fire Officer Paul Fuller presented two “special appreciation” awards to:

*Martin Freeman, who was recognised for his work with Bedford Borough Council in partnership with BLFRS, in improving road safety before his retirement earlier this year. Among the activities supported by Martin was the Xccelerate (trade name) course for pre-drivers.

*Tony Harris MBE will retire in December in his 46th year of service in fire control now housed in Kempston, Beds. He lives in Luton.

Tony joined what was then Luton Fire Service in August 1964 as a Fire Control Operator and was promoted to Leading Fire Control Operator in 1970. He became a Senior Fire Control Operator in 1974 and has led a watch within the service ever since

Fire Controls perform a critical support function within Fire and Rescue Services, handling all incoming emergency calls and taking full responsibility for the mobilisation and incident support of service resources.

This function is carried out by dedicated teams of individuals working long hours on a shift based duty system that ensures 24/7 support.

To lead a team within Fire Control demands not only extensive operational knowledge but also total commitment to the Service and your team.

Over the years Tony has been responsible for the initial on watch training and on going development of many individuals who have gone on to lead teams of their own thanks to the first class grounding and guidance they received at the beginning of their career.

Working in an emergency service control centre can be both stressful and at times distressing with the working day veering from periods of relative calm to frantic activity which in the case of serious emergencies can last for hours or even days.

Tony's calm and methodical approach to all manner of disasters and emergencies that he may be presented with not only ensures that the job gets done but also that all team members feel supported and confident in the task at hand.

Tony has built up vast experience and has always been generous with his knowledge and genuinely willing to pass on what he can to his team and other colleagues.

His professionalism is of the highest standard and his attendance exemplary.

On 31.08.1984 Tony was awarded the Fire Brigade Long Service and Good Conduct medal and went on to receive his 25 year Long Service Award on 31.08.1989. He was made a Member of British Empire 18.06.1999 and was awarded his 40 year Long Service Award on 31.08.2004 He has been and continues to be a remarkable role model for emergency control staff within Bedfordshire and Luton.

The Bedfordshire on Sunday : “Contributing to Young People” was presented by the CFO.

This year the award went to John Jackson and Garry Braddock for welcoming in a young apprentice to the Site Management team as part of the Prince’s Trust ‘s “Get Into” scheme. The scheme involved invited young people to spend two weeks with emergency services employers to gain valuable team building and work experience. Following this Denver Donaldson was given a career chance of a lifetime.

Having completed his A Levels at St Thomas More, school, Denver, who now lives in Kempston, was not sure what career path to follow until The Prince’s Trust gave him the opportunity to apply for the Fire and Rescue Service post.

Now he is an Apprentice Maintenance Technician covering all aspects of property maintenance on fire stations and is being supported in his day release to Barnfield College working towards a Level 2 NVQ in Carpentry (First Fix) and a Level 2 Diploma in Maintenance Operations.

“I am much more of a ‘hands on’ type person rather than working from behind a desk. This job is perfect for me, I am learning so much and no two days are the same. I am very grateful to The Prince’s Trust and the Fire and Rescue Service for such an opportunity.”

The two year apprenticeship includes training at Barnfield College, Luton and attending a personal development and leadership course sponsored by Cambs Rotary.

Denver is being mentored by more experienced members of the maintenance team, Terry Broomfield and Graham Storey and was interviewed for the job overseen by Officer Services Manager John Jackson :

John said: “It is a privilege to be able to be in a position to support a young individual especially one of Denver’s calibre and hopefully provide him with the first step on to the ladder that can help him determine how he then maps out his future. In the time Denver spends in and around the teams I manage, will have the ideal opportunity to draw from all the staff’s years of knowledge, picking up a wide variation of skills and experience along the way and I believe in time he will become an asset to the Service”

Fire Station Open Days - in your neighbourhood

Children, parents and grandparents can get a close look at fantastic fire engines, talk to firefighters and get some tips which could save their lives in the future.

Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service Chief Paul Fuller says: “Our fire stations belong to the local community and we want people to come along and get to know their local firefighters.

“These Open Days are a great opportunity to learn more about how we as an organisation serve the public and for the public in turn to give us some vital feedback about what more we can do to help them.

“We now call these our COMMUNITY fire stations because we want organisations and groups to make use of the meeting rooms when they are not occupied by our own staff. So come along and have a great FREE day out.”

A vital FREE service offered by the local fire service is Home Fire Safety Checks which can include the fitting of free smoke alarms. To book a visit contact 0800 043 5042.

For full addresses of fire stations go to www.bedsfire.com


Stopsley Saturday September 18th 2pm - 4pm

Dunstable Sunday September 19th 2 pm - 4 pm (Macmillan Coffee Afternoon to raise money for cancer charity being hosted by Community Fire Safety Staff)

Harrold Saturday September 25th 1pm - 4pm

Ampthill Saturday September 25th 1pm to 4 pm (Macmillan Coffee Afternoon to raise money for cancer charity being run by volunteers)

Luton Saturday September 25th 2 pm - 4 pm (Macmillan Coffee Afternoon to raise money for cancer charity being hosted by Community Fire Safety Staff)

Blazing Saddles

An inspiring talk by a Bedfordshire firefighter about the lives which have been saved in Kenya by the donation of a Bedfordshire fire engine has inspired a charity cycle called Blazing Saddles.

Ray Willett, Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service Transport and Engineering Manager, and retained firefighter, gave a talk to Stotfold Salvation Army about his visit to Kenya to hand over the fire engine and the subsequent return visit to Kempston of one of the African firefighters. So impressed were the group that they decided to try and help raise some money to support the project further, and Blazing Saddles was on the road.

At 8 am on Saturday September 4th Roy Scott and friends will pedal from Kempston to Shefford fire stations, a distance of about 20 kilometres. Anyone who would like to join them, or make a donation, can contact the team on 01462 730348 or tubalationsuk@gmail.com

*Photo Roy Scott, coordinator for event photo with the bike second on the right (red helmet) and friends at Kempston station.

Press Release Spring 2010

A fire engine donated to a town called Meru in Kenya is already helping to save lives in the African country.

Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service and the Combined Fire Authority decided to donate a vehicle, which was going out of service, and it was handed over in April 2009. Now one of the Kenyan firefighters who rides that truck is in the UK receiving top level training from BLFRS:

Joseph Githuka Njoroge, aged 27, is an electrician by trade and is one of ten firefighters who crew the fire applicance in Meru.

He arrived in UK on the weekend of March 6th 2010 and began activity on at Kempston fire station a few days later.

He has been on a series “shouts” with firefighters to see a top British fire team in action

After work he is spending time with friends from Dunstable Community Church* which was involved in the original idea of donating a fire engine to the town of Meru.

After BLFRS donated the vehicle last year, Transport and Engineering Manager and retained firefighter Ray Willett and colleagues joined representatives from the Dunstable church in travelling to Kenya to train the local firefighters and teach how to look after the vehicle.

Without a fire pump, firefighters are unable to operate. In the past other brigades have donated trucks to countries overseas, but soon they are off the road through lack of engineering expertise to keep them functional. Ray recognised this problem and so he and two colleagues (BLFRS workshops technician Michael Yawn and retained firefighter and AA man Colin Sheldon), at their own expense, travelled to Kenya to give the local firefighters some training.

There they met Joseph who was keen to learn more - and so arrangements were made for him to come back to the UK.

Speaking alongside his new friends at BLFRS, Joseph said: “We were very happy to receive the fire engine in Meru it already gets us to fires and accidents quicker and with better equipment.

“When I get back to Meru my challenge will be to keep the crew training, always training. As the firefighters do here in Bedfordshire.”

During his seven weeks here Joseph is undertaking a range of training from the workshops where he will learn to keep the fire truck on the road through: First Aid, Water Rescue, Line Rescue, Road Traffic Collisions, Community Safety, Small Equipment Maintenance, Personal Fitness and Driving.

Said Ray Willett: “I would like to say a big thank to all those for helping with Joe’s training and for giving him such a fantastic experience in the UK. He is just soaking up the information and really enjoying being part of BLFRS.”

*Joseph left UK on April 22nd - he spent his final few days at Dunstable fire station close to his friends at the Dunstable Community Church.

New Deputy Chief Fire Officer joins BLFRS

Glen Ranger MBS DipBE MIFireE
New Deputy Chief Fire Officer for
Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service

A new Deputy Chief Fire Officer has joined the team at Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service.

Glen Ranger has worked in three other brigades, most recently as Deputy at Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service.

BLFRS Chief Paul Fuller said: "Glen brings a wide range of experience in the modern Fire and Rescue Service and that will be helpful as we face the challenges ahead.

BLFRS has three Assistant Chief Fire Officers - two from operational backgrounds: Robert Hull and Julian Sears, plus HR lead Zoe Evans.

“We have a great team here and Glen is already making useful contributions to our plans for the future,” added Chief Fuller.

Glen Ranger was born in London in 1962. Following service with the Armed Forces (Army), Glen's Fire and Rescue Service career began in Oxfordshire in 1989 where he served as a Firefighter, Leading Firefighter and Sub Officer. In 1996 he was promoted to Station Officer (Rider) with Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, where he served for five years, becoming an Area Commander in North Essex. In October 2001, Glen moved to Warwickshire serving in Operations, Community Fire Safety and Support Services before becoming Warwickshire's Deputy Chief Fire Officer.

Glen holds a Masters Degree in Business, a Diploma in Business Excellence and the Members Diploma of the Institution of Fire Engineers. He has completed the Prime Minister's Top Management Programme at the National School of Government, which is the principal management development programme for senior civil servants, senior executives and academics.

Glen was awarded the Fire Service's Long Service and Good Conduct Medal in 2009 following twenty years of loyal service spanning three Fire and Rescue Authorities.

Glen is married to Ann, and has two children Luke and Jessica.

Like all operational firefighters and principal officers, Glen lives within a short distance of any FRS incidents.

“Firefighters are here to serve the community and that means being available whenever we are needed by the public who dial 999 when faced with life-threatening situations,” said Deputy Ranger,

“Our priority is providing a top quality emergency and community safety service, capable of dealing with any incident, but one which crucially prevents fires and road accidents occurring in the first place.

“Making sure our frontline firefighters are kept clear of unnecessary risks is always a fundamental part of our investment in our training programmes. We All Come Home is a key safety message which is embraced on all our fire stations.

“I am proud to have been appointed as the Deputy Chief Fire Officer for Bedfordshire and Luton, and I look forward to building upon the excellent work already undertaken by the service.”