Shropshire and Wrekin Fire Authority has launched an "extensive" public consultation exercise to get feedback on proposed changes to the service outlined in their draft integrated risk management action plan for 2007/08.
The plan details progress with the Fire Authority's main priorities up to March 2008 which are the implementation of the findings of an in depth review of the retained firefighters duty system, provision of fire safety education in rural parts of the county and a review of emergency cover.
From April 2007, the Fire Authority also proposes to implement changes to the service provided by Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service. This includes:
relocation of one of the two full time fire engines from Telford Central (Stafford Park) to Tweedale fire station;
trial of a small fires vehicle in the Telford area; and
introduction of attendance time standards for other incidents (excluding fires and road traffic collisions which were introduced in April 2006)
The public is being asked to "make themselves heard" by completing an online questionnaire at www.shropshirefire.gov.uk to comment on the proposals. Paper versions are available from the fire service on 01743 260 200.
In the questionnaire, Shropshire residents are asked if they agree that the relocation of a fire engine and crew from Telford to Tweedale will make better use of resources; should response times be set for other life risk incidents; and should the fire service respond and or charge for other specific non life risk incidents it is called to.
"We are continuing to improve our fire and rescue service by ensuring that our firefighters are in the right place, at the right time, with the right equipment to reduce the risk to the people of Shropshire", said Chief Fire Officer Alan Taylor.
"It is only by listening to the people of Shropshire that we will be able to continue providing the level and quality of service they expect and deserve from their fire and rescue service."
Councillor Nigel Hartin, the Fire Authority Chairman, said
"The new proposals if adopted will reduce still further the distress caused by fire and other emergencies in Shropshire. This is part of the Fire Authority's continuing drive to make sure its resources are used in the most effective way, and to continually improve the service we give to the people of Shropshire and Wrekin.
We want to make sure that the people of Shropshire have every opportunity to understand the issues and enable them to feedback their comments," he said.
The deadline for public consultation is November 17.
