Lincolnshire Fire Brigade Could Start Charging For False Alarms

In a significant shift in policy, the Lincolnshire Fire Brigade is exploring the option to charge businesses for responding to false alarms generated by fire alarm systems in commercial and industrial premises. This bold move is part of a set of proposals aimed at overhauling the way the fire brigade operates and addressing the increasing occurrence of false alarm call-outs.

Background on the Proposed Changes

The Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue Service has compiled a seven-point summary detailing its proposed amendments to current operational policies. These proposals are now open to public consultation until May 16, allowing businesses and residents alike to voice their opinions. The introduction of charges for false alarms is aimed at discouraging repeated call-outs that strain resources and disrupt operations.

Nick Borrill, the acting Chief Fire Officer for the Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue Service, stated, “We recognise that most companies take the management of their premises and fire safety seriously. However, it is primarily those businesses that impose a significant burden through repeated false alarms that these proposals aim to deter.”

The Cost Recovery Process

One of the pivotal reforms outlined in the summary is the proposal to “introduce a cost recovery process for attendance to unwanted fire alarm signals.” With the rise in automated conventional fire alarm systems in Lincolnshire, the brigade has seen an uptick in false alarm incidents. The service has reported that although steps have been taken in past years to mitigate this issue, the number of false alarms is still relatively high and has begun to rise once more.

This proposed charge for false alarms is designed to incentivise businesses to maintain their fire alarm systems properly and ensure that they operate effectively. The idea is to alleviate the pressure on the force and allow fire crews to focus resources on genuine emergencies.

Reduction in Rescue Support Units

Another significant shift proposed by the Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue Service involves reducing the number of rescue support units (RSUs) from two down to one. These RSUs play a crucial role in responding to complex incidents by offering breathing apparatus, chemical decontamination, and equipment for severe road traffic collisions. The rationale behind this decision stems from the growing realisation that most of the specialised equipment is already available on frontline fire engines.

Critics of this reduction may express concerns about the potential impact on response times for significant incidents; however, the brigade assures the public that this change is considered a necessary step in optimising resources while maintaining high standards of safety and service.

Joint Ambulance Conveyance Project

In a bid to enhance operational efficiency, another proposal involves the further development of the Joint Ambulance Conveyance Project (JACP), in partnership with the East Midlands Ambulance Service and LIVES. After a successful twelve-month pilot, there are plans for the JACP to continue its operation across the county, expanding to five additional fire stations.

This project aims to improve integration between fire services and ambulance operations, ensuring faster response times and potentially saving lives. There’s a strong emphasis on community engagement as the fire brigade seeks feedback from local residents regarding these changes.

Engaging with the Community

Public engagement is a core component of this consultation process. The fire brigade has encouraged community members to participate by filling out feedback forms available on their website or by contacting them directly for hard copies. Public information events are planned in Skegness, Lincoln, and Grantham to discuss these proposals further and gather opinions.

Nick Borrill expressed the importance of community feedback: “We are keen to hear the views of the community on our proposed changes and encourage as many residents as possible to complete the feedback form.”

The Lincolnshire Fire Brigade’s proposal to charge businesses for responding to false alarms represents a significant shift in policy aimed at enhancing safety and resource management. With rising figures of false alarms, the introduction of a cost recovery process stands to benefit not only the brigade but also improve overall fire safety standards within local businesses. The public consultation period allows for important community involvement, and it will be interesting to see how these proposals unfold once final decisions are made. It is an essential moment for both the fire brigade and the communities they serve in Lincolnshire.