Fire service thanks firm for flexibility
THE fire brigade has thanked a Runcorn joinery business for supporting staff who have to be called into action at a moment’s notice as on-call firefighters.
Brad Baig and Ricky Goff, both stationed at Runcorn Fire Station, work for Howdens but can leave work when they receive an alert over an incident to be attended by the Runcorn on-call fire engine.
Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service (CFRS) has presented an employer recognition award to the firm as thanks for accommodating the firefighting roles.
Representing Howdens to receive it from station manager Ian Pugh and on-call watch manager Darren
Jones was site manager Laurence Parr.
Group manager Tony O’Dwyer, who leads on-call firefighter recruitment for CFRS, said: “On-call firefighters provide emergency cover to over 90% of the UK.
“There are over 14,000 of them in England, protecting our small towns and rural communities.
“Employers like Howdens are invaluable in supporting the on-call firefighter initiative in Cheshire.
“On-call firefighters need to live or work within five minutes of their local fire station, ready to respond to one of the many types of incidents we are called to.
“There are reciprocal benefits to the employers of on-call firefighters, thanks to the extensive training our operational staff receive.
“The training, which includes problem solving, risk assessment, team working and first aid and trauma care, adds value to a business at no extra cost to them.
“We are extremely grateful to Howdens, who have supported the on-call programme since it began, for their support of both CFRS and their local community.”
Runcorn Fire Station is located on Heath Road in Runcorn.
Any employer who would like to find out more about releasing their staff to be on-call firefighters can find out more at cheshirefire.gov.uk