Dorset Firefighter Welfare
I was surprised and genuinely concerned to learn on BBC South Today this evening that, unlike Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, our own Dorset & Wiltshire firefighters apparently don’t have the appropriate protective clothing for fighting wildfires — particularly in this ridiculously hot weather.
They need specialised, lighter wildfire jackets rather than their normal structural firefighting kit, which is designed for entering burning buildings. One firefighter interviewed compared wearing the current gear in these conditions to wearing a thick ski jacket instead of a lightweight rain jacket.
I can't imagine how difficult it must be for firefighters to work in that kind of heat while wearing such heavy protective equipment. With the increasing risk of wildfires, surely we need to make sure they have the right equipment to do their jobs safely and effectively?
Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service reportedly says getting the appropriate kit is a top priority and that they'll obtain it as soon as funding allows.
But honestly, shouldn't this be something that gets funded now, rather than waiting for the next major fire?
And perhaps this is something the local community could get behind too. There are some very wealthy areas around Dorset — Sandbanks included — and plenty of people with a very real interest in protecting the surrounding heathland and properties from wildfire. If the public wanted to help fundraise for additional wildfire equipment, I'd certainly support that.
Our firefighters shouldn't have to choose between protecting us and protecting themselves from heat exhaustion. They deserve the right equipment before, rather than after, we have a major wildfire on our doorstep.