ACTIVE attends Fire and Rescue Congress 2010

Solutions to meet the challenges ahead

ACTIVE's Business Development Manager for Public Safety, Craig White attended the Fire and Rescue Congress to look at ways of overcoming the challenges that fire and rescue services are facing in this difficult time. The following key themes emerged from the day:

Preparing for spending cuts

A one size fits all approach to funding may be on the horizon so it is important to have proof which illustrates why funding is justified. Nigel Williams, DCFO Dorset, cited ACTIVE’s Phoenix and PINPOINT as providing the evidence base that they needed to put strategies in place ready for the impending funding cuts.

Efficiency savings

A move towards variable shift patterns and understanding demand through workload modelling should be made in order to achieve a leaner back office. A balance of efficiencies in both prevention and response will lead to the most success.

Engagement

Fire Services should look to win over the hearts and minds of the public so that they see all the good work that is done outside of putting out fires.Targeted Home Fire Safety Checks are a key part of this in order to reduce risk in the areas that need it the most.

Innovation

As well as saving money, Fire Services could look for ways of making money by offering new services to help dilute funding cuts. Collaborating with other emergency services should also be considered.