December 2009
Keeping Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service Personnel Informed Year Review elcome to this festive edition of Alert. July saw crews dealing with a The past year has been one of major major explosion at flats in Hoole Wchange for the organisation, yet we have Lane, Chester – miraculously there still managed to deliver an excellent service to were no injuries. The month was local communities and hit our key targets. A also a time for departures, with fire sincere thank you to all staff and volunteers for cadets making their third successful your hard work and commitment - Happy school-building visit to Ghana and Kathryn Christmas and a peaceful New Year. Foreman, Deputy Chief Fire Officer for Paul Hancock, Chief Fire Officer Corporate Services saying farewell. David Topping, Chair of the Fire Authority August saw the Service taking pride The year started with the Service highlighted as of place with its pink fire appliance at one of the most progressive in the country in a Manchester’s massive Pride Parade. national report called ‘Rising to the Challenge: The stars were out in September at improving fire service efficiency’. the Service’s inaugural STAR awards February saw the launch of a new stores service event which ensured many of the from HQ following a major £30,000 refit. organisation’s ‘stars’ were recognised. Improvements included better computer access, There was another first with the launch of improved storage and stock management. the Co-Responder scheme at Nantwich. March saw celebrations as the Service hit its October was another time for target of carrying out 60,000 HSAs. departures, with Chief Fire Officer Steve McGuirk leaving to take up the top job at Manchester Fire and Rescue April was a time for new beginnings with the Service. Existing Deputy Paul Hancock was appointed as Cheshire’s launch of new councils for Cheshire East and first new Chief Fire Officer for a decade with an immediate pledge to Cheshire West and Chester resulting in a new-look develop a team approach across the organisation. Fire Authority and new Chair. The month also start of the major building programme at Headquarters. November saw the launch of the Rapid Response Rescue Units based at Sandbach and Holmes Chapel primarily to deal with Road May saw the Service hit the record books when it Traffic Collisions along the M6. unveiled a giant inflatable fire appliance – the ‘largest fire engine in the world. The month also saw praise December - staff, family and friends attended the fifth joint for fire crews after they prevented a major blaze in a emergency services Carol Service at a packed Chester Cathedral, and laboratory and offices on the Heath Business Park in were entertained by Dee-Sign Deaf Choir, Upton Heath Primary Runcorn from spreading to adjacent premises. School Choir and the Cheshire Constabulary Band.
Fire Authority members have now approved the Service’s seventh draft annual Integrated Risk Management Draft Plan (IRMP) / Corporate Plan for consultation. Consultation has started and a summary of key proposals will be plan circulated to staff shortly. Main themes include ensuring the Service increases the flexibility of its response to the changing risks facing local communities and continuing the review of working arrangements to ensure they ready remain fit for purpose and deliver value for money. See the Intranet for full details. I Festive PLUS... N competition 4 page S pullout I on staff survey – D centre Your new HSA celebration Competition Charity race E Intranet - p4 - p11 - p23 success - p24 pages Preparing for an
he Service held a major exercise aimed at raising people’s awareness of what to do in the event of Ta major emergency. emergency This took the form of a ‘Shelter Day’ at Hapsford This is the traditional message given out in major Services just off the M56 and involved crews responding incidents. There was also support on the day from other to a simulated incident involving a toxic cloud as if it were members of the Cheshire Local Resilience Forum. The happening for real. In addition specialist protective Service also used additional technology during the exercise in equipment and decontamination kits were used to rescue a bid to help keep residents and businesses informed. This the driver and deal with the leak of phosphoric acid. included a pilot ‘bluetooth’ technology available on most Community safety staff were also on hand in the nearby mobile phones. village of Elton, talking to residents, who had been given A mobile transmitter with a range of up to 250 metres sent advance warning of the exercise, about what they would out a brief information message which could be accepted by need to do if this incident was happening for real. anyone in the area with bluetooth enabled on their mobile Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Mark Cashin, said: “The phone. exercise went really well, not only was it a great way of Cllr David Topping, Chair of the Fire Authority, said: “It’s ensuring that our crews have the best possible training in important that we continually look to improve the way we preparation for a major emergency, it also provided us with provide information to people during emergencies and if the an opportunity to highlight what the community should do pilot is successful we will look to roll it out more widely”. The if an incident like this was to happen for real. We want success of this pilot has meant that the system is now being people to remember that in most major emergencies they purchased for use in future situations. should; Go In, Stay In and Tune In.” Excellence awards Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service together with partner agency Age Concern were short listed this year for the prestigious “Third Sector Excellence Awards” held at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London. Age Concern Cheshire and the Service were nominated in the category “third sector-public sector partnership” for our work in targeting older vulnerable adults. On the evening the winners were Essex County Council and the National Tree Foundation for a major tree planting campaign. Representing the Service at the event was Chair of the Fire Authority Cllr David Topping, Chief Fire Officer Paul Hancock, Evan Morris, Emma Coxon and Suzanne West along with five colleagues from The nominated team from CFRS and Age Concern Age Concern Cheshire including the Chief Executive Gill Walters. Cheshire Hungerford Primary School visit Blue Watch and staff from Crewe Community Safety Centre invited 60 pupils from Hungerford Primary School to attend Crewe Fire Station as part of the National Fire Safety Day. The aim of the event was to get Key stage 1 children to “Plan an Escape” with their families. The inflatable fire engine was used to demonstrate dangers in the home and then the children were put into the smoke tent and were shown the escape element of the key stage 2 DVD and had the chance to inspect a fire appliance. Chair of the Fire Authority Cllr David Topping and Mayor of Cheshire East Cllr Margaret Simon also attended and handed out 6th sense goody bags to all the children.
2 in my view. . .
In the short space of time in which I have employee’s views. been Chief Fire Officer, I have quickly It is particularly pleasing to see big come to appreciate the enthusiasm and improvements in satisfaction levels with dedication of staff in every department communications and training. Both of these and at every level of the organisation. are areas where we have invested time and It is no coincidence that recent external energy in recently as they are crucial to our inspections of the organisation have all made future success. a point of commenting on staff commitment There is clearly still room for improvement in their final written reports. in some areas and we began the process of I am also delighted to see significant taking things forward by having discussions improvements in all key areas from the results at our recent management conference. of the recent Staff Satisfaction Survey, details The subsequent action table will be of which are included in a special four-page shared with everyone and monitored by briefing in this newsletter. Paul members of the Fire Authority so that when With just over half of the workforce we come to hold further staff surveys in the Hancock completing the survey we can be confident future we hope to see a continuing rise in that the results are a genuine reflection of satisfaction levels. Winter driving with Team Halton lue Watch from Widnes and Halton Community Fire Safety team hosted our a interactive winter road safety day with BCheshire Road Safety Partnership. The event was sponsored by ASDA in Widnes and the support of their management and staff was overwhelming. The event took six months in planning and resulted in an exciting project. It was well supported, well received and with great team work produced over 1200 people coming to the event. The crews, Unitary Performance Manager, advocates, support staff and volunteers got involved in the event to deliver the fire safety messages. The day enabled people to talk to staff regarding various road safety issues and to receive a winter road safety Firefighter Tom Taylor with Asda employees receiving driving packs, and enter into a prize draw. their goodie bags. The day was aimed at attracting motorists to spend a little time checking their vehicle, including tyre safety, child safety seats and how to avoid skids along with a range of practical advice about winter driving. The event showed the benefits of working within the Cheshire Road Safety Partnership and the importance of making links with local business communities, bringing it all together in providing a special event. Local students help clean up Fire Crews from Green Watch Widnes raised funds for National charities with a Car Wash. The initiative was organised by Graham Maher and Steve O’Neill from White Watch and took place at the ICI Recreational Centre in Widnes at the end of October. Helping on the day were Widnes Fire Cadets and a group of local students who generously volunteered their time for this good cause, one of whom was Miss UK Student of the Year. By the end of the day over £400 pounds was raised and split equally between The Fire Fighters Charity and Cancer Research. 3 Welcome to your new Intranet
Here is a preview of the new intranet, which has just been launched.
Key features of the new Intranet
• The new Intranet allows you to personalise your homepage.
• You can choose what information you want to see on the home page.
• You can also move items about on the home page – so that information that is important to you, can be moved to the top of your homepage.
• The home page is made up of a number of app’s (see screen shot example on the right of a number of apps).
• If you click on the My Homepage button (in the yellow bar at the top of the screen), this gives you the option to add more apps to your homepage.
Summary of the key apps The homepage is made up of a number of apps. You can choose to delete apps (or minimise the apps). You can even move the apps around on Choose which your home page, so that your favourite apps are apps you want at the top of your homepage. on your homepage Here are the key apps:
• The Telephone Directory app allows you to search for a telephone number by searching for the name, location and department. • The My Department app allows you to access information about your department/station. You will need to customise it, by choosing your department from the drop down lists. • The Features app gives you access to the latest news. There will be three news stories featured in this app. • The Briefcase app gives you access to a list of your favourite intranet pages. • Using the Latest Incidents app, you can view the latest incidents that the Service has attended.
4 Key apps continued:
• The Notice Board app has been created so that you can post announcements and notices. You can post information about items for sale, accommodation to rent, announcements about social events, etc. •TheService Databases App provides a full list of databases that are used by the Service. You can edit the list of databases, allowing you choose which databases you want to see on your database app. • The Blogs app allows you to choose from a selection of blogs. You can choose which blog you would like to be displayed on your homepage. • The What’s New app provides access to the most recently updated intranet pages. • The Weather app provides a three day forecast for Cheshire. •TheEvents Calendar app lists the next three events that are coming up. It also provides you access to the full events calendar. You can use the calendar to view events on a particular date. • The Health and Safety App provides a link to all information held on the health and safety section of the intranet. • The Video app promotes the latest Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service Video and also provides you with a link to the video library. • The Jobs app provides the three latest vacancies at Cheshire Fire & Rescue Service • The Latest Poll app has been created so that we can find out your views and opinions. We will post a question to this app. You can answer the question by selecting an answer and then click on the vote button to submit your answer. New polls will be added regularly and previous polls will be available for you to view results. Any questions? Any questions about the new Intranet, please email the Web Team: [email protected]
thank you to.... and• Sarah Marshall Graham Foster in ICT for building the apps for us. • Chris Mitchell • Caroline Wathen The project team, for meeting regularly to review the • Vicki Aspell development of the intranet – and for updating the • Julia Morrison intranet pages: • Pete Lloyd • Ashley Lawton • Mark Brothwood • Martin Round • Nicola Guise • John Noden • Diane Curbishley • Sandra Buckle Thanks for all your help and support. Caroline Jones Updating the intranet If you would like to add something new to in the Intranet, or if you would like to update a current page on the intranet, please contact the Web Team by emailing: [email protected] Or phone Caroline Jones (Tel: 8422) or Ashley Lawton (Tel: 8751) 5 Remembrance Day parades
emembrance Day Parades were held throughout the county, with representatives from the Service Rattending various locations. Fire Cadets and Service staff paid their respects at ceremonies across Cheshire by laying poppy wreaths as part of local ceremonies. Acting Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Keith Brooks also led a two minutes silence at the headquarters on November 11. Stations also took part by flying their flags Lymm Parade attended by Police, Local Councillors, Parish at half mast and parking their appliances at the front of Councillors, Warrington Brass band, the Stations. The Royal British Legion along with many community groups and volunteers and Station Manager Phil Kilgour.
Winsford Cadets. Widnes Crews visit St Basil’s Widnes’ Green Watch is currently working alongside St Basil’s Primary School in the town as part of the ongoing Phoenix Project which is being undertaken by all Watches across Halton. The work they have been doing involves assisting the teaching staff with the current national curriculum. Over a two week period they have been helping the year one classes learn all about senses and also gave an informative presentation to the whole school on keeping safe during the days leading up to bonfire night. Future work will include interacting with other classes on subjects such as the Great Fire of London, improving the environment, career choices and aspirations, changes in the local area, safety in the home, the work of firefighters. The crew will also have an involvement in an anti-bullying week. The project is proving to be a great success and has been well received by pupils and teachers alike. White Watch Chester visit Lache Primary
Members of Chester’s White Watch planned a morning’s to be cut short due to a call out at which some children engagement with young children at Lache Primary were disappointed they didn’t get to see everything. Not to school. The children were shown around the appliance let them down, Crew Manager Ant McCarthy and and informed of equipment and firefighter roles. Firefighters Stu Bramham, Paul Douglas and Dan Holmes returned and let all the children finish the tour of the Some sat in the appliance and got to see the equipment appliance, letting them use the hose reel at which they and communications used whilst at incidents, but this had were all delighted.
6 Director General IN BRIEF visits Warrington BLACK he new Director General of the Communities and Local Government HISTORY department (CLG), Mr David Prout visited Warrington Fire Station on a Tfact finding visit to the North West to learn more about the Fire and Rescue Service. MONTH Former Chief Fire Officer Steve McGuirk welcomed him and showed a As part of Black History Month on presentation on the modernisation of the Service which was followed by a tour of the October 8 Advocate Ali Bhaloo the Community Outreach vehicles, including the new inflatable appliance and the and Volunteer Mandy Joubert new Community attended the O.C.E.A.N Roadshow vehicle. Blue (Organisation Caring for Ethnic and Watch Warrington put on All Nations). This is a new charitable a display using the tower organisation aiming to provide demonstrating how to tackle a three-storey support for Black and Minority blaze. ethnic groups and the wider community. Mr Prout said the visit had been very informative During the event, held at the Crewe and useful in Alexandra Stadium, Ali and Mandy understanding the role of promoted home safety assessments the Fire and Rescue as well as the volunteer programme. Service and thanked A display about Cheshire Fire and everyone for their Rescue Service’s involvement with contribution. CLG Director General David Prout meeting Advocates young people in Ghana was also Barrie Green and Ray Galligan. shown. INDUSTRIAL Outstanding volunteer WASTE becomes an advocate TARGETED Dave Ashton, a retired prison officer joined IN TOWN Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service as a CENTRE Volunteer and enjoyed “Team Halton” joined forces with the experience so much that he has secured a Halton Borough Council’s (HBC) full time job as a Home Waste Management Team and Safety Advisor earlier targeted all industrial waste this year based at containers around Widnes town Warrington. This was centre, Halton Lea Shopping Centre swiftly followed in June and Runcorn town centre. with a promotion to Advocate based at Stickers were placed in Widnes. predominant places on all containers in an attempt to reduce Colleagues at Warrington and Halton Community Safety teams together the instances where crews attended nominated Dave for his achievements as a Volunteer and this culminated in Dave these “nuisance fires”. This was to receiving a well deserved award for “Outstanding Volunteer”. build on last year’s success Dave donated up to 30 hours each week during the nine months he worked as especially during the Halloween and a Volunteer. He is well known to his colleagues as a very conscientious individual bonfire night periods. who never gives up. Congratulations to Dave from all your colleagues, keep up the good work!!!
7 Student campaign wins National Award heshire Fire and Rescue Service Induction Week activities and at city campaign with the University of in partnership with the nightclubs during student nights, Chester and colleagues in America has CUniversity of Chester were while 1,000 t-shirts, 2,000 posters and won this prestigious accolade. 25,000 beer mats also spread hard- presented with a national award at the “In the campaign, we were keen to hitting messages. Park Lane Hilton Hotel in London highlight the risks to students in order after winning the ‘Partnership Social networking sites were a key to keep them safe, and by working in Initiative of the Year’ prize. tool in the campaign, with both the partnership and making full use of A pioneering campaign which advert and the reconstruction, which social networking sites, we were able included an online viral marketing involved student volunteers playing to provide vital advice for young presentation with a James Bond theme the leading roles, being uploaded onto people going away to university and and a dramatic reconstruction of a fire YouTube and Facebook. college and living on their own for the first time. I would like to thank in a student flat won the award at the Dr Lesley Cooke, the University’s everyone who helped to make this SHP IOSH Awards which recognise Dean of Students said, “We’re thrilled award winning campaign a huge outstanding contributions in the to win such a prestigious award. It is a success.” world of health and safety. The significant challenge to convey advice initiative was described by judges as ‘a and information to young people In the UK, smoking materials and subtle, yet highly-focused campaign, about personal responsibility without candles were the cause of around aimed at transferring the principles of sounding patronising or overbearing, 1,900 student injuries between 2003 a good safety culture’. but this clever campaign had a cheeky and 2008. The campaign was also run Highlighting the ill effects of edge which both appealed to students simultaneously in the United States, alcohol in terms of fire-related injuries and reinforced such an important where the launch on Capitol Hill, and sexually transmitted infections to message.” Washington, was attended by the friends and relatives of some of the 18 students both in Cheshire and in the Councillor David Topping, Chair of American students killed in fires USA, the viral advert was shown at Cheshire Fire Authority added, “I am during the 2007/2008 academic year. University Open Days, during delighted that the Service’s joint Steve is Brake Ambassador Firefighter Steve Benbow has been awarded “platinum ambassador” status by the road safety charity BRAKE for all of his good work promoting road safety to students in the South Cheshire area. Steve has delivered sessions to over 2500 students in the past three years and has received a lot of positive feedback from the students. A letter of thanks is attached from a business student who recently took part in a visit to Crewe Fire Station. Dear White Watch I would like to thank you for allowing us to visit the fire station, the information you gave about car accidents was very useful and made me think a bit more about safety in a car. I found it very interesting and very helpful. Usually I wouldn't put my seat belt on all the time but since I have been to the fire station I have been doing this. I came to the fire station with my Business group and learned how the fire business works, but also important things about car crashes and accidents. Thank you very much. Yours sincerely Kasia Sykes
8 from Whatever it takes The Chair in Mobberley
he Service joined forces with book free home safety assessments partner agencies to help and the fitting of free smoke alarms to Timprove the quality of life for residents in the village. residents living in Mobberley village. Alex Waller, Unitary Performance ‘Whatever It Takes’ is a multi-agency Manager for Cheshire East said: “The approach to improving the way of life Service and all the other partners are for communities and involves all the fully committed to making a real and partners working in a specific area and lasting difference to the local doing ‘whatever it takes’ to make a real community of Mobberley and we are difference to that community. sure the initiative was a great success.” The next few months are Focussing on community safety, A total of 55 Home Safety particularly critical times for our numerous resources and equipment Assessments were completed during organisation as we draw up our from the Service helped support the the weekend, several Age concern plans and budgets for what we initiative. This included a range of contact assessments were completed all know is going to be a difficult vehicles such as the inflatable fire and several deep fat fryers were time ahead. appliance, the Outreach Vehicle, the handed out to high risk occupants. chip pan display. Fire Safety Advocates Hard work over a number of and volunteers were also on hand to years means that we are in a better financial position than many offer advice and the opportunity to Crowds enjoying the demonstrations organisations, but ‘doing more with less’ is going to be a fact of life for us and all public authorities. Our draft Integrated Risk Management Plan / Corporate Plan for 2010/11 sets out how we intend to respond to the changing risks facing our communities at the same time as coping with major pressure on our resources. Inevitably that means a focus on ensuring we make the most effective use of our resources. This will see an ongoing review of working arrangements in all areas to ensure they are still delivering what our communities need as Volunteers attend efficiently as possible. It also means even further development of our already extensive joint working with training evening partners, potentially collaborating or sharing some of our services. Alison Lamb, Lead Advocate for Cheshire West and Chester, invited While change is unsettling, I Volunteers to attend a training session with the DISC team (Drugs know that everyone connected with Intervention Service) who predominately work with young people aged 13-19 Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service who are experiencing difficulties because of their own or someone else’s is committed to improving the substance use. safety of local people. Alison and Unitary Safety Manager Emma Coxon attended with two members I hope all staff approach the of staff from the DISC team and points covered included types of drugs and how consultation on the draft IRMP in a to look out for signs and symptoms. positive and constructive manner so that we make the changes This was a great evening with eleven volunteers attending. Refreshments were necessary to ensure we can provided as many of them had come straight from work. continue to protect our Each of them received a certificate from DISC for attending. There was some communities in the vastly different great feedback from all involved and some great ideas for future training. financial world we now live in.
9 IN THE
Police Liaison Officer Nigel Mills
This edition of the Alert Spotlight is external investigators to catch culprits turning its focus onto the Service’s who set deliberate fires. year-old pensioner in a Congleton Police Liaison Officer, Nigel Mills. nursing home have been among the As a specifically trained fire key cases Nigel has helped to solve. Nigel was seconded to Cheshire investigation officer another key focus His contribution helped secure the Fire and Rescue Service in 2004 after for Nigel has been on investigating and successful prosecution of those funding was secured by the Office of detecting arson incidents. involved. the Deputy Prime Minister. His role “Fire investigation is also key to our was to work as part of the Community Nigel has also been heavily involved success and in the future I would like to Fire Protection team in a bid to help in providing guidance and support to work even closer with the various reduce arson incidents within Cheshire. staff and has worked closely with agencies, as well as looking to Watches to stress the importance of Nigel explained: “The Service’s main countries such as America where fire completing FDR1 forms correctly, aim was to reduce deliberate fires both investigators have Police powers to evidencing deliberate fires, and how in terms of the risk and cost to society. pick up a case from the outset. crucial it is to take detailed notes and Since the introduction of the Police This means they can pursue the photographs. Liaison Officer we have seen some real investigation until the end, which lead success in this area.” Now he is introducing an electronic to significantly higher levels of fire investigation data base which will Nigel, who served as a Detective detection, approximately twice that of provide a central resource for data Constable for 19 years with the Police the UK.” management following fire service, works closely with the Three high profile murder cases, investigations. Service’s fire investigation officers as including the brutal murder of a 79- well as colleagues in forensics and Protecting staff from secondhand tobacco smoke
he Cheshire Charter, which aims to protect staff working in the community from exposure to second hand tobacco smoke, has had Tits official launch. Those who sign up will ask all clients whom they visit at home to not smoke during the visit and to refrain from smoking in the room where the meeting will take place for at least 30 minutes before the visit. The event which took place at Ellesmere Port Civic Hall had representatives from local authorities, PCTs, NHS Hospital Trusts, Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service and Cheshire Police who attended to collect their awards and celebrate the launch of the scheme. The Cheshire Charter scheme was developed by Heart of Mersey in order to help protect community staff from the damaging effects of second-hand smoke. Organisations in Cheshire that have already gained Cheshire Charter accreditation include Warrington Borough Council, Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Halton Borough Council and Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service. Ten other organisations are currently working towards accreditation. 10 HSA celebration evening t the end of August a Home Safety Assessment (HSA) Acelebration barbecue was held at Mere Golf and Country Club to say “thanks and well done” for the achievement of 60,000 HSA’s between April 2008 and April 2009. White Watch Chester, White Watch Runcorn, Warrington Unitary Performance Area, Julie Cooper and Julie Richards were recognised in particular for their exceptional contribution to the HSA target and community safety. Winsford firefighters, Mark Pomford and Dave Shawcross, were also mentioned for their efforts although they were unable to attend on the night. A Sikh band from Manchester provided live music and John Turner the magician firefighter from Warrington entertained the guests with his skill. Fire Angel kindly sponsored White Watch Chester; White Watch the event. Runcorn; Terry McDermott representing Warrington Unitary The Service was able to recognise Performance area being presented only a select few on the night and with certificates by Deputy Chief although it would have been great to Officer Mark Cashin and Advocate have everybody there, CFRS would like Julie Cooper; Julie Richards being given their certificates by Area to congratulate everyone involved in Manager Phil Hales HSA delivery – the target couldn’t have been achieved without the combined team effort! Partnership Tattenhall initiative in safety week Birchwood Cheshire West Community Safety Team Birchwood’s Red Watch is have been working in currently completing a joint Tattenhall, where initiative with Frontis Housing Advocates Karen and Cheshire Police where Noden, James Scott, children are completing a Hannah Lloyd, Suzanne junior Community Support West, and Home Safety Officer scheme. Adviser Matthew Part of the initiative was Hubbard together with a spending the day with the number of volunteers Watch designing fire safety had a very enjoyable posters for bonfire night and and successful week youngsters then had the where they completed a opportunity to view the fire large number of Home appliance and spend the day as Safety Assessments and junior Firefighters. generated more for the Cheshire West Community Safety The young people enjoying the fire appliance coming weeks. Team 11 Blue Watch celebrate Diwali
n the evening of the 17 October Warrington’s Blue community paid worship. Whilst there crews handed out Watch was invited to attend the opening relevant information regarding fire safety during the Ocelebration of the festival of Diwali at the Sikh celebrations, as this was the Festival of Light when many Gurudwara at Dover Road in Latchford. fireworks and celebratory candles are lit. Two pumps went along and joined in with the festivities. Many children were able to look at the equipment on the Some who attended were invited to enter the Prayer Room appliances and see in the cab whilst all the crews got to and were able to watch as members of the Sikh and Hindu have the delicious food which was so generously given. Young farmers on Sandbach tour Sandbach Young Farmers enjoyed a guided tour of their local Fire Station thanks to the Service’s Cadets. The visitors learned about the history of the station, the Cadet scheme and the valuable role played by community volunteers. They also watched a car fire drill demonstration by the Cadets and inspected a fire engine. Throughout the evening, a wide range of fire safety information of particular relevance to farming was available and staff were on hand to discuss any queries or concerns. Cadet leader Craig Howell said, “The event ended with a comprehensive road safety presentation given by our road safety officer Frances Egerton which was specially tailored towards young farmers, as their age group suffers the highest number of road traffic collisions and deaths.” Red routes Methodist information event at HQ Church The Road Safety Unit held its second road safety Bradfield Rd informative event at SHQ for staff focussing on “Red Routes” across our County. Crewe’s Blue Watch were invited to attend a pensioner group meeting at the Methodist Church The Road Safety Unit (RSU) along with one of our on Bradfield Road in Crewe. The purpose of the visit partners (Cheshire East Road Safety Unit) delivered a highly was to spend some time with the group and talk successful event engaging with over 80% of Headquarters about Home Fire Safety. staff. The crew delivered a talk to approximately 20 elderly The aim of this event was to raise awareness of the people thus raising awareness with a vulnerable group dangers related to driving and to bring attention specifically within our community. We then ended the talk by to the Red Routes around our County, which some of us handing out leaflets to re-enforce our safety message. drive on to and from or for work each day. Also attending with the crew were Sherrie Miskelly This links to the national Occupational Road Risk (ORR) and Sharon Roberts who are two new members of agenda, therefore the RSU used this event to proactively Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service Control Staff. They reduce the risks connected with 'at work' vehicle use. were shadowing the crew for the day to see how Along with a variety of leaflets and give-aways, there operational personnel work and deliver Fire Safety were also interactive games to be played, which staff found through direct engagement to members of the public. very beneficial, which were aimed at concentration and there The attending crew were Crewe Manager Swan and was a road signs competition where the prize was a £10 Firefighters Bostock, Wagstaff, Ollier and Edwards. voucher.
12 Staff Survey December 2009
This special four-page Alert briefing sets out the controls in place to ensure that each member of staff could headline results of the recent Staff Satisfaction only complete one survey. Survey and highlights key areas for further development. Members of the Service At the end of the main survey, focus groups were also held with a cross section of operational and non-operational staff Management Team will be holding meetings on across the four unitary areas. The focus groups were held at stations and with departments in the New Year to Chester, Crewe, Warrington and Widnes fire stations. The discuss the results and the next steps. The full 148 aim of the sessions was to explore the initial findings of the page survey report is available on the Intranet, staff survey in more depth and find out more information however, for obvious reasons the print option has from employees about the results and key issues. been disabled. The Serviceʼs managers also received a briefing from Priority Research at their recent management conference Summary and were given the opportunity to discuss the issues in more depth. Improvements in satisfaction in all key areas have been highlighted as a result of the Serviceʼs second employee Response Rate survey. Results are set out in detail overleaf but there was a 13% increase from 2007 on the main question of overall 502 members of staff completed the survey – a 50% satisfaction with working for the Service. response rate. This is slightly lower than in 2007 but is still an excellent response rate when compared to other public Background services who traditionally obtain response rates of between 30-40%. The Service carried out its first detailed staff survey in 2007 and the Fire Authority and Service Management Team were Summary of Results keen to carry out a second survey this year to see if levels of satisfaction on a range of key work-related issues had Key differences compared to 2007 improved. The survey results clearly show that employee satisfaction To address employeeʼs concerns about confidentiality, the has improved significantly when compared to the survey Service again employed an external company, Priority carried out in 2007. Research, to conduct the survey with all 1,000 staff. Overall satisfaction with working for the Service has The survey was carried out during July and August this year increased by 13% (to 59%) but all results show an average and collected information on current levels of satisfaction 8% increase compared to two years ago and in particular among staff with various aspects of their working life and there were significant increases in terms of communications asked for opinions on: and information (19% overall) and training and development • Peopleʼs own jobs (15% overall). • Work/life balance • Workplace culture and equality and diversity • Working relationships between immediate managers and different levels of staff • Organisational performance and leadership • Staff learning and development • Communication channels. What were the overall satisfaction Survey Methodology ratings? The survey was completed online and paper Respondents were asked at the end of each section to versions were available for staff if required, although only a summarise how satisfied they were overall with the main very small number of employees requested a paper copy. topics covered within the survey. The results for 2007 are in The survey was completely confidentially, with added brackets to show the comparison. Staff S
The results for overall satisfaction were as follows: What are relationships between senior • Immediate manager - 81% (77%) managers and staff like? • Physical working environment - 69% (55%) • Your job - 58% (49%) The relationship between management and staff was linked • Communications and information - 57% (38%) to the lack of value that many employees feel the Service • Workplace culture - 57% (48%) has for staff. In the focus groups a number of employees • Learning & development - (44%) (29%) claimed a ʻblame and fear cultureʼ was a factor. • Performance and Leadership - 37% (29%) • Working for the Service -59% (46%). A third of staff agreed that Principal Officers and Heads of Department provide clear leadership and 27% agreed that Why has satisfaction increased? the Service Management Team are doing a good job at motivating employees to perform their roles to a high Staff at the focus groups were asked why they thought that standard. the survey results had consistently improved since 2007 and the reasons given were: Respondents were also asked if middle managers • General improvements made since 2007 (WM, SM & GM) were doing a good job to motivate them. • Staff turnover These results were more positive with 41% agreeing • The period of significant change two years ago although the same percentage also disagreed (41%). • Being employed during the current economic conditions • The investment in technology/email on stations and What do staff think about change operational training. management and decision making?
Do staff feel valued? Only a quarter of staff felt that the Service manages change effectively which was also a key driver of overall satisfaction Only a third of respondents said that they felt valued by the with the Organisationʼs Performance and Leadership. Service. Fifty per cent of non-operational staff agreed but it was much lower for staff who work in operational roles. The At the focus groups, many staff said that they understand main reason why staff said that they do not feel valued at the the concept of change but disagree with the Serviceʼs focus groups were a lack of praise and recognition; issues approach and claimed there was a lack of openness, with the CPD payment system and a fear/blame culture and sensitivity, commonsense and consultation with staff. the use of disciplinary action for minor issues. Do staff feel bullied and harassed? However, most staff said that they were very happy in their role and 79% of staff said that they enjoy the work that they Although the level of bullying and harassment has reduced do (13% higher than in 2007) and 86% said that they are in the last two years, around a fifth of the sample (18%) said able to cope with the demands of the job. that they had suffered from bullying or harassment. compared to 22% in 2007. What did staff think about work/life balance? In the focus groups, many staff said that in Three quarters of non-operational staff felt that the Service the majority of cases it was flexible and helped them balance their work/life balance. was down to Some support staff who attended the focus groups were management culture extremely positive about the flexibility but operational staff rather than had a very different view with widespread concern about the inappropriate behaviour introduction of 12 hour shifts. by colleagues.
There were concerns that this would significantly harm the Only a third of people work/life balance and for those with children there could be who had suffered from an affect on family life. Operational staff also expressed bullying or harassment concerns about floating leave days and the difficulty of said that they reported finding stand ins. it and that they felt that the Service was supportive if they did. There are still significant differences between satisfaction levels for operational and non- Next Steps operational staff, although the gap has reduced since 2007. Other key concerns expressed by staff were: A draft action plan is being developed which will be presented to • Not feeling empowered or valued by the the Fire Authority in the New Year to address some of the Service concerns identified from the survey. Key areas include: • Issues about flexible working and work/life balance • Issues of trust and respect between Feeling empowered and valued management and staff Opportunities for staff to influence decision making and • Performance management management support available, ensuring all areas of the • Bullying and harassment and how organisation feel equally valued inappropriate behaviour is managed and the support mechanisms available for staff. Immediate Manager / worklife balance Help and support from immediate managers, balancing requests for flexible working against the needs of the Service
Barriers to effective working Identifying improvements over access to technology and to information and policies
Performance Management Options to improve and recognise good performance and deal consistently and effectively with poor performance
Bullying and harassment Agreement over consistent definitions, improving reporting arrangements
What will happen now? Equal Opportunities Raising awareness of issues such as training and discrimination, The final survey report and a draft action plan will opportunities to engage with black and minority ethnic communities be considered by the Fire Authorityʼs Performance and Overview Committee shortly. Leadership As in 2007, we will hold a series of workshops which will involve approximately a quarter of the Increasing visibility and role of managers throughout the workforce from across the organisation in further organisation, options to involve and inform staff during major discussion. change
As well as the full report, the Intranet also Communication includes a PowerPoint presentation which was Options to improve information sharing across departments and given by the external research company to between headquarters and frontline services managers of the Service. Learning and development Further information Options and limitations on the Service in providing promotion and career development opportunities, identifying and promoting If you have any further questions about the training opportunities survey results, please contact Consultation and Communications Officer Jeanette Bate, email – Employee engagement [email protected], tel. 01606 Raising the profile of the Service Management Team, options for 868994. ongoing staff engagement and consultation
A further survey will be carried out by an external Appraisals researcher in 2011. Proposals to simplify appraisals and ensure consistency and security ‘My Halton’ Fantastic fundraisers strategic oung people on the Prince’s Trust programme running from YChester Fire Station have partnership event raised an amazing £1,800 to benefit local organisations. “ y Halton” was a series of The team, who are on the personal events designed to development programme, raised Mshowcase the positive work £1,000 packing bags at Asda in of the partnership across Halton to Ellesmere Port. £500 was donated help reduce crime and keep people from “02 It’s Your Community Award” safe, improve skills, promote and £300 from Crimebeat. The money healthier lifestyles and provide new helped the team create a wheelchair opportunities. The partnership event garden at Pinetum Nursing Home with was supported by Cheshire Fire and paved paths, a stone circle and raised Rescue Service including Advocates beds for residents to plant flowers and and Volunteers from Community food for their kitchen. The garden was Safety, Officers from Community Fire officially opened by the Sheriff of Protection, White Watch from Chester, Hilarie McNae and husband Runcorn and Widnes Stations and Colin. Admin Support Staff. Juliet Wooldridge, Active Living co- The Partnership consider that they ordinator at Pinetum said the garden have a duty to inform communities was “a marvellous benefit to us and a about what the partnership is doing, lovely team effort for them”. why they are doing it, what the Organiser of the project Ann outcomes have been and what the McBride added, “It's the best project benefits are to local people. I've been involved in. It was brilliant, I The objective of the day was to raise think it's great that young people can the profile of the Halton Strategic give something back to the community Partnership; Engage with hard to reach and learn new skills.” groups; Promote the partnership projects; Highlight a partnership approach to target stakeholders; Provide opportunities for intergenerational engagement and to encourage multi cultural activities The theme was “My Halton” which encompassed My Health, My Family, My Safe Community, My Opportunities, The rest of the money will be used My Prospects, My Children, My to host a party at Dorin Park Special Environment and My Life. The day was School, a quiz and bingo afternoon at all about encouraging the people of Pinetum, and a day out to the zoo with Halton to take ownership of their young mum’s from Ellesmere Port and borough and also feel that they are part their children. of it. If you would like to see some of the The day was split into three young people’s work, they have their locations across Halton and Cheshire own page on the 02 website. Go to Fire and Rescue Service was located at www.itsyourcommunity.co.uk and each venue with the main attraction search for project details – the project being held at the Stobart Stadium, name is Pinetum. home to the Widnes Vikings. The The team would like to thank stadium had given special permission everyone who made their project for the Service to site the inflatable fire happen. The next team in West engine on the pitch, which proved a Cheshire starts in January 2010 at popular attraction for children and Ellesmere Port Fire Station. Please adults during the half term break. contact Anne McBride on 07795 492291 if you know any young person who may like to join. 13 Proactive action IN BRIEF in Winsford HQ ‘WEAR ire crews from Winsford decided Residents were also encouraged to IT PINK’ to tackle its anti-social behaviour visit the nearby community centre to The ‘pink fire appliance’ travelled to get advice from the other agencies Fhead on in the run up to bonfire Winsford Town Centre to help Asda night by arranging two ‘Whatever It who attended. Advocates were also on staff, promote ‘Wear it Pink’ day on Takes’ events on an estate where last hand to offer steering locks, cooker 30 October to support Breast year fire crews were subject to attacks. timers and energy saving light bulbs. There were also plenty of goodies for Cancer Care. Staff were encouraged The two days were arranged in the children. Firefighters also managed to wear the colour pink and make a October and were held on the to complete 30 Home Safety donation of £2 with the total raised Wharton estate where crews worked Assessments to local residents. of over £180 from Headquarters alongside other agencies such as Weaver Vale Housing Trust, Primary Event co-ordinator Hannah alone, with a thank you to everyone Care Trust, Winsford Youth Forum, Caulfield said “In previous years anti who joined in or donated. The total Mid-Cheshire Collage and Cheshire social behaviour has been prevalent was the highest yet, so well done to Police to give the area as much within the Wharton area especially everyone on a fantastic assistance as possible. during the Bonfire season. Hopefully achievement. our direct engagement has gone some Crews also took along the chip pan way to help reduce these occurrences demonstration unit, the new large and help build relationships between inflatable fire engine and an outreach the fire service and the community.” BIRCHWOOD vehicle which were used as a focal point to attract as many of the As a result, crews from Winsford VISIT residents from the estate as possible. have seen a huge reduction in the This allowed crews to offer some fire number of nuisance calls to the area safety, road safety and fire works over the bonfire period and has had SAINSBURY’S limited anti social behaviour aimed advice. Residents were invited into the Red Watch Birchwood assisted the inflatable to see what it had to offer. towards them. Sainsbury’s Superstore in Culcheth in preparation for their Fire Safety Week. Crews used the event to promote the Winter Fire Safety theme identified by the Government and used the occasion to highlight the dangers of portable heaters, electric blankets and candle safety over the Christmas period. The event was hugely successful with over 25 Home Safety Assessment requests generated. Environmental update FARM FIRE At the last Environment Programme Board meeting Deputy Chief Fire Officer Mark Cashin applauded the good examples on stations following the Eco- SAFETY AT Audits which have been carried out. Initiatives highlighted include – Stations with environment/energy SHOW representatives/champions had a noticeably more proactive attitude towards reducing energy consumption and being environmentally aware, including Community Fire Protection Runcorn, Warrington and Macclesfield. These same stations also displayed the Business Liaison Advocates Sarah Carbon Trust energy saving posters and 'switch it off'/ 'close it' stickers Marshall and Peter Chadwick Some stations are already displaying the Environmental Policy and most attended this year’s Nantwich Community Fire Protection and Community Safety offices bought recyled International Cheese Show to stationery products. promote farm fire safety and engage with exhibitors and In Workshops all used and faulty tyres are now either remoulded or recycled businesses to highlight Arson with some waste products reused/recycled by waste contractors. A special Reduction, Unwanted Fire Signals mention should be made of Nantwich station which took part in the 'Nantwich in Bloom' celebration for yet another year. and the Fire Safety (2005) Order. 14 Lee goes back to school arrington’s Blue Watch visited a local school as part Wof the National Schools Fire Safety Day and for one of the crew it was exactly like being back at school! Crew Manager Lee McGarity was a former pupil at the school, St Margaret’s Primary and he was also taught by the head of year teacher Miss Harrop. Former pupil Lee McGarity turns “teacher” for the day As part of the visit Firefighters spoke to the children about the today. The classes also had a tour of youth support officer Ray Galligan gave differences between the equipment the appliance looking at the different the children an insight into the Fire used during the Great Fire of London equipment and then it was back to Service and our role in the community. and also the similarities that still exist class when Community Fire Safety “Respect” Chester Lions joins Winsford fireworks display Cheshire West Community Safety Team’s attendance at the Chester Fireworks display was a great success this year as hundreds of people flocked to Chester racecourse to this annual event run by Chester Lions club. Advocates Karen Noden, James Scott, Pete Chadwick and a large number of Fire Cadets from Chester and Malpas engaged with the public giving advice on fire safety in the home. The chip pan display was as spectacular as ever and had the audience enthralled and a number of Home Safety Assessments were booked following the event. A big “thank you” from the Cheshire West Community Safety team to all the Cadets that attended.
Winsford crews were on hand to provide some basic training for a local “Respect” group as part of their 10- week course. Eight young people accompanied by three teachers arrived at Winsford Fire Station on 6 November and were given a guided tour of the station, the appliances and its equipment. The pupils then went out on the drill yard where they received instructions and had a practical session on basic hose, hydrant and pump drills. They were then given the chance to put what they had learnt into practice by performing some of these drills as a squad, working the pump and supplying water to their colleagues on the branches under the watchful eye of the crew from the station. The aim of the morning was to give the group a small insight into some of the practical skills required to be a firefighter and to show them the importance of team work Fire Cadets with Karen and Pete and the chip pan fire within the group. demonstration unit 15 Jo’s visit to Blue Watch - a ‘Positive’ success
oanne Lean from the Warrington Guardian out in super fast time, and confidently carrying the required newspaper was invited by Blue Watch to Birchwood equipment across the distance of the course. Fire Station to take part in some of the required J Then it was the ladder lift, in which Jo showed good recruitment tests. This visit was to help promote the strength to complete the test comfortably. Service’s Positive Action Days. Watch Manager Jason Fletcher said, “This was a Watch Manager Mark Brothwood from the Learning and fantastic opportunity to help promote the Service’s Positive Development department also attended to give guidance Action Days and for Jo to come and see for herself what the with the tests. Jo was a little nervous, but she soon sprang testing process entails when applying for the Fire and into action as she successfully completed the first test, the Rescue Service. Jo did very well with all the tests, and said ladder climb. Then it was onto the dummy pull, which she she may even consider applying one day!” described as dragging the heaviest doll in the world!! Another great effort as she managed to complete this in Jo then ran an article in the Warrington Guardian about exactly the allocated time. her visit, and this proved to be a real success, as Warrington Fire Station’s Awareness day was attended by over 50 After a short break to regain her breath it was over to the people from various backgrounds. rural test. A really great effort saw Jo running the hose reel SPUD R.I.P Rainbows visit In the summer of 2001, Firefighter Mark Pomford turned Blue Watch from Widnes visited Upton Community out to a job that came through as a “dog stranded in the Centre in Widnes to meet the Rainbows group. water”. On arrival crews retrieved the dog and as no one The Rainbows are a group of girls aged between 5 and 7 was around to take the dog he was brought back to years old who are were working towards achieving their station. Investigations proved that the dog had not been ‘Camp Fire Safety Badge’. Blue Watch talked to the group reported missing and after speaking to the Police it was about all fire safety issues and answered any questions. agreed Mark could take him home until the owner was Afterwards the girls had the chance to look around the fire found. appliance and squirt water. No one ever came forward and Mark ended up keeping As well as talking about Fire Safety the crew were able to the dog and named him ‘Spud’. This made quite a story at give a clear message about road safety, the emphasis on ‘Be the time in the newsletter and all the local papers including seen, Be safe’. The group were very enthusiastic and the Liverpool Echo. thoroughly enjoyed the visit. Mark has let us know that unfortunately Spud died a few weeks ago of natural causes after becoming part of the family, having lived a very happy life.
L to R: Firefighters Tom Taylor and Jem King and Crew Manager The original story from 2001 Paul Rostance 16 Green fingered THANKS THANK YOU transformation TO WHITE he Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service Prince’s Trust WATCH Warrington 39 Team has T Dear Sir - Friendly, efficient and transformed the garden at Orford a Youth Base on Capesthorne Road and professional, these are the qualities celebrated with an official opening on displayed by your officers when they 6 November. The team of 13 young fitted an extra smoke alarm for free! people raised over £400 to carry out Thank you and them very much, a the work and battled severe weather to fantastic service.b complete it. Members of White Watch Chester The brief was to turn a redundant were thanked by a local resident area at the rear of the centre into a after receiving a Home Safety garden and to brighten the area up for Assessment. the users of the centre Deputy Mayor and Fire Authority Member Cllr John Joyce and consort Mrs Joyce Steph Taylor the manager of the congratulate the members of the team – centre said, “I would like to thank the Nicola Bain, Sam Warburton, Chelsea Team for creating such a beautiful Finn, William Wadsworth, Thomas Ross, IN BRIEF Community Garden here at Orford Haroon Rafiq, Craig Newton and Katie Youth Base. It is a credit to all their Halligan. hard work and commitment over the SHERBORNE last two weeks and an excellent project in just eight days”. The course example of team working.” is designed for young people with a Team member Will Wadsworth view to improving their confidence, RD FUN DAY said: “It was amazing how we all motivation and ability to work with pulled together and completed the others. EVENT In early September members of Crewe’s Blue Watch and New Nantwich Community Advocates attended the Sherborne Road Fun Day. The event, which is in its second year, is cadets complete their organised by Wulvern Housing and brings different agencies together to give support to the residents of induction course the local community. During the visit the Services’ representatives Nantwich Cadets began life in May of this year and now 10 members have took time to show parents and been recognised after completing their induction course on basic fire skills at children around the appliance and a formal parade at the end of October. used this opportunity to raise The parade was attended by parents, Fire and Rescue Service Officers and Fire awareness of Fire Safety in the Authority members and started with an introduction from Watch Manager Stuart Home and road safety Red Routes. Morris followed by a demonstration from the Cadets which included drills with hoses, ladders and a combination drill. After the demonstration the cadets were presented with certificates, and two cadets were made up to Crewe Managers while there were also two special awards for Most Improved Cadet and Cadet of the Year. During the 15 weeks the unit has been active the group have assisted with a number of community events such as The Nantwich Triathlon, Nantwich in Bloom, Nantwich Fun day, The Fire Fighters Charity Car Wash and seven Cadets attended the summer camp in Wales. The Cadets that passed out were Watch Manager Stuart Morris, Crewe manager Max Kelly, Tom Dobin, James Burrows, Mike Naylor, Oliver Wilson, Lewis Johnson, Daniel Jones, Jack Bohannan, Alex Heaton, Nick Church and Daryl Families inspecting the fire appliance Gater. 17 A Big appeal Charity car Green watch from Chester Fire Station kindly went to BiG Storage to show their support for their annual toy appeal that is run in conjunction with the Chester wash Wilmslow Chronicle which appeals to the public to donate new toys to underprivileged children in the area. The Fire Fighters Charity car wash was held in September with nine Fire stations taking part. This year the collection is specifically for Save the Family and Claire House Children’s Hospice. At Wilmslow Fire Station the event was an enormous success which raised in excess of £700. All members of the watch worked hard throughout the day with assistance from support staff, Cadets and family members.
With Green Watch are Alison Taylor and Brendan Oldfield from BiG Storage and Miss Cheshire. The Watch got a big surprise when they met a new recruit! Firefighters rise to challenge Firefighters from Winsford and Northwich joined forces to raise money for a local charity that is very close to their hearts. Paul Cowin, Paul Sullivan, Pete Owens, Lee Cliffe, Martin Chester Red Warburton, Andi Macdonald and Adrian Dewsbury decided to take on the 3 Peaks Challenge by climbing Ben Nevis, Scafell and Snowdon, the highest peaks in Scotland, England and Wales all Watch in within 24 hours. The challenge was organised to raise money for St Lukes Hospice charity run based in Winsford. After a cold wet start in Scotland the whole team managed to climb all three peaks and reached the top of Snowdon Continuing their drive for ‘ultimate fitness’, three 22 and a half hours later. members of Red Watch Chester recently took part in a sponsored 10K run in aid of Cancer The team asked friends and family to sponsor them and together Research in the ideal setting of Delamere Forest. they raised over £2,080 for St Lukes which was handed over to the charity last month. Michelle Hayes fund raising co-ordinator who Although not viewed as a race as such, a sense accepted the donation said, “The money will help us to provide care of competition still developed, and it was with great for our patients and their families and we are very grateful for what relief for Firefighter Billy Lenthall when he crossed these Firefighters have achieved”. the finish line ahead of the others, although it has to be said they were hot on his heels!.
Crew Manager Neil Harrison, Firefighter Billy Lenthall and Crew Manager Mike Perks accompanied by his The stop watch proves it ! gorgeous twin girls! 18 t the beginning of October Cheshire’s Search and Rescue dog Bryn with handler Steve ABuckley attended a Mission Readiness Test (MRT) in the Czech Republic along with two other Bryn is dog handlers from the UK. This was organised by International Rescue Dog Organisation where the UKISAR dog teams are TOP DOG members and is made up of 38 countries from all over the world. This MRT is accredited and certificated to the search dog standards that have been accepted by INSARAG / United Nations and deemed to be one of the toughest search and rescue testing procedures in the world. Thirty-six international rescue dog teams took part from all over Europe with twelve international evaluators testing the teams over a 36 hour period on seven complex searches and other SAR disciplines. Bryn (and Steve) being put through their paces This was an extremely successful Both dog handler and dog had to be In order to successfully qualify 70% event for the UK team with the dog entirely self sufficient and ready to of the casualties had to be located. team leader and all of the dog teams respond within a five minute timescale During this process dog handler skills being certificated to the IRO MRT for deployment day or night. were also keenly monitored. Teams (INSARAG standard). Many other from France, the Czech Republic, As well as a series of practical skills teams were not so successful. This Slovenia, Germany, Switzerland, being undertaken there was also a was a fantastic achievement and Slovakia, the Netherlands, Croatia, UK night orienteering march culminating in enhances the UKISAR FRS creditability and Hungary took part. Out of all these two night searches testing the dog and as a heavy rescue team under the teams the UK and Austrian teams handlers stamina and dexterity. Theory United Nations umbrella. scored the highest in the event. tests included veterinary and human The teams were accommodated first aid and a 30 meter abseil with dog This makes Cheshire’s Bryn and within a camp so that they did not have and handler. Steve Buckley one of only four dog any contact with the outside world. teams in the UK with this qualification. School’s major incident exercise
Ellesmere Port’s Red Watch was invited to attend extinguishers soon had the fires out which put an end to a Brookside Primary School and get involved with the disastrous day on the railway. school’s ‘Major Incident Event’ which followed the This was a very well structured and enjoyable day and pupils’ course work on disasters and major accidents the crews would like to thank PCSO Claire Whomes who and how the emergency services work together. organised the event. This was a great opportunity to get There was also representation from the Police and involved with school projects and talk to the pupils about the Paramedics who attended and gave the children information many roles the Fire and Rescue Service plays at such major into their roles and responsibilities at such incidents. incidents. The event surrounded a role play train derailment with multiple casualties and fire. As the pupils were given roles within the event some were Firefighters, Police, Paramedics or casualties. The casualties were very cleverly made-up and the whole scene looked like it came from the ‘Thriller’ video as fake blood, head bruising, glass and cuts were too realistic. The classroom scene was set as the inside of a train carriage with tables and chairs upended with victims lying underneath screaming for help awaiting the arrival of our young heroes from the emergency services. An exercise followed where they all set about putting their newly acquired knowledge into extrication and team work to effect. As their hands snapped together to simulate cutting tools the firefighters soon cut the casualties free and gave assistance to the paramedic team who within no time at all had them back on their feet. The hiss of fire
19 Thanksgiving for Ryan is emergency services guest of honour
Sandbach Fire Station hosted a visit by 11 year-old Ryan Moore, who suffers from cerebral palsy which involved firefighters, officers, cadets, the Sandbach Transport Festival Committee and the Town Council. Each year the Festival Committee invite a local child from the Caudwell Children’s Charity to be a VIP. During the festival they go behind the scenes, Group Manager Paul Hawker and Station Manager Bill Davies from Derbyshire Fire & take pride of place in the vehicle Rescue Service. parade and visit the Fire Station. Photographs are then taken as a ommunity Safety Advocate Barrie took the vintage Crossfield’s record and an album created to be Barrie Green attend the 999 Dennis pump which generated a lot of presented by the town council and CService of Thanksgiving at interest. committee representatives and Disley Methodist Church on Sunday Sandbach Fire Station was chosen to 25 October on behalf of the Service A “thank you” letter has been received host the event. and Heritage Group. by the Church Council Secretary Ryan was accompanied by his Although just inside Cheshire Gwyneth Chambers – “On behalf of our family and visitors included the Chair borders Disley is at the confluence of Church I would like to thank you for of Sandbach Town Council Mrs Elsie the three brigade areas of Cheshire, sending representatives to our “999” Alcock, Chairman of the Festival Greater Manchester and Derbyshire Service giving thanks for our Emergency Committee Graham Alcock, Paul and all three were invited to attend Services. Arrowsmith of the Caudwell Children’s together with the Police, Ambulance Charity, Festival Princess Miss Kirstie and the Mountain Rescue Service. The We were very grateful that you Fire Orr and this years festival celebrity, service was also attended by local Officer brought your vintage fire engine Heavy Weight Champion Boxer “Big” Civic dignitaries and was to celebrate The collection raised £176 for the Youth Joe Egan. the work of all the emergency services. Oncology Unit at Christies Hospital.” The Service was represented by Cheshire East Unitary Performance Manager Alex Waller and guest of Styal Prison staff and honour Ryan was presented with the album and gifts including Blaze Bear and was also made an Honorary Fire families Cadet. White Watch at Wilmslow Guests were then provided with a together with Advocates buffet whilst entertained by Joe Egan Adam Shaw and Sean who described his part in Guy Ritchie’s McCormick and Admin latest film “Sherlock Holmes” due for Support Sue Care attended release this Christmas. Styal Prison staff and families day in early September as the prison had organised a variety of information stands and Crew Manager Chris Storey giving advice and hairdressing demonstration information to one of the prison staff. by the prisoners. Fire and Rescue Service personnel gave fire safety advice and road safety information to the staff and provided demonstrations with the chip pan unit. Positive feedback was received from the prison with an invitation to return for the Ryan enjoys his VIP visit. event next year. 20 Halton community project
alton Prince’s Trust Team 42, A comment from one manager was: based at Runcorn Fire Station, “It has been pleasure to work with such Driver Htook on the challenge to a knowledgeable and understanding convert a neglected piece of land at clientele whom have made a conscious the back of the centre into a effort to cut cost and recycle for the engagement sustainable area for learning, benefit of the local community”. The Road Safety Team has once relaxation, developing new skills and The team built a number of raised again been out and about growing vegetables for use in the beds, moved ten tonnes of soil, four of delivering Driver Engagement centre’s kitchen. sand, laid over sixty flags and planted Days across Cheshire. Though the remit for the project was thirty trees and bushes. With a to build a garden area accessible to all, greenhouse full of seed trays awaiting an extra incentive was to cut costs, the spring ready for carrots, peas, reduce our carbon footprint and make tomatoes and a multitude of flowers - sure the project had long term benefits next year there should be something for for all users. everyone. All funds and equipment used was The culmination of all this hard work sourced in the Widnes area so that the was a spectacular opening attended by project helped support local business the Deputy Mayor of Widnes and local and cut down on travel. Wherever Fire Authority member Cllr Steph This has included events in possible recycled materials were used Nelson, accompanied by Widnes’ crew Knutsford, Birchwood, to lessen the impact on the and fire appliance. Warrington, Congleton and environment and cut down on waste. Wilmslow. Top dog Wheelock Oscar guides community fire station Daven CP visit school visit The 1st Wheelock Guides attended Daven CP School in Congleton was Crewe Community Fire Station visited by firefighters and pupils where members of Blue Watch shown around a fire appliance and all Oscar is a cuddly four-year-old were on hand to assist them in its equipment. They had invited the Newfoundland who is well mannered, earning their Fire Safety Badge. Watch to attend their school as part loves people and attention and has of ‘national schools fire safety day’. Firefighter Janssen Bostock told been chosen as a mascot to the group how the Service works and Various topics were discussed such represent Cheshire Fire and Rescue more practically how the fire station as “stop, drop, roll” and making fire Service. functions. This was followed by a talk plans and the possible consequences He has already attended functions on how fires start and spread, how of making hoax calls. The whole class such as the Cheshire Show, Malpas they are extinguished, what were then deputised to become Show and the Poynton Show where he precautions are needed to prevent ‘smoke detector detectives’ and given wore his specially made jacket and bib fires and emphasising the importance the brief to go home and make sure with pockets which carry home fire of having a working smoke alarm in they had working smoke alarms fitted, safety information which is handed out the home. where no excuses from parents would to the crowds who come to see him. be accepted. Finally, assisted by Firefighters If you would like Oscar to attend and Mark Latham and Ryan Younger the Afterwards all were delighted to go support CFRS events, please contact group were able to look around the outside and investigate the contents of his owner Eddie Edwards on 07776 appliances and ask questions about the various lockers, sit inside a fire 297784. All risk assessments are the equipment. engine and ask as many questions as complete and insurance is in place. they wanted. 21 Arrivals New starters PAUL ROSTANCE PHILIP USHER Before joining CFRS Service Paul worked Philip previously worked for Merseyside as a Crew Manager for North Wales Fire Police for six years in various Intelligence and Rescue Service from 2002, most roles. He has joined us as the Risk recently stationed at Deeside. He has Analysis & Intelligence Manager in the joined us as Crew Manager on Blue Watch Corporate Intelligence Unit. at Widnes.
CHARLES RILEY CATHERINE WAGSTAFF Charles was a solicitor at Cheshire East Catherine has worked for the Rural Council (formerly Cheshire County Payments Agency in Crewe as an Admin Council) working in the Corporate team Assistant for two years. She is now an and latterly the Environment team. He is Admin Assistant at Crewe Community Fire now happy to have joined CFRS in the Protection. Legal and Democratic Services Team as their latest Solicitor. PETER CHADWICK Peter took early retirement from Bentley SHARON ROBERTS Motors where he was a Senior Engineer Sharon has joined us as a Control Room with a background in Industrial, Marine Operator. She previously worked in the and Aviation firefighting. He now works as travel industry for over 10 years including a Business Liaison Advocate in hotel reservations for the last three years. Community Fire Protection based at SHQ as well as maintaining his Volunteer status. SHERRI MISKELLY Sherri has joined us as a Control Room KATHRYN SHAKESHAFT Operator and has recently moved from Katie has spent the last couple of years Northern Ireland where she worked in working contracts for agencies. Previously sales and logistics for over six years. she worked for Procter & Gamble for 17 years in a variety of roles. She has joined us as a Home Safety Advisor based in JENNIFER HALES Warrington. Jennie spent the last three years at the University of Hull where she studied Law. DENISE CURBISHLEY After graduating she became involved Denise is an Administrator in Workshops at with volunteering for CFRS and has since SHQ and prior to this worked for six years taken up the post of Home Safety Advisor for Iceland Air and XL Airways as long haul at Widnes. Cabin Crew.
JACQUELINE LLOYD JENNY LYNCH Jackie is an Administrator in the Learning Jenny who has a degree in Business and Development Department based at Studies from Sheffield University worked SHQ. Prior to this she worked for Flybe in private banking for Lloyds TSB for Airlines for three years in the Logistics nearly two years. She is now an Admin Dept based at Manchester Airport. Assistant based at Chester Fire Station.
ANGELA GROOM Angela is currently employed in the ASHLEY LAWTON Human Resources Support Services Team Ashley has joined the Corporate as an Administration Assistant two days Communications department as per week (Thur/Fri). She has relocated E-Communications Assistant. He back to Winsford from Hertfordshire where previously worked as a Clerical Assistant she was employed as a HR Officer for an in Medical Records at Leighton Hospital IT company. for two years.
Do you have any comments or suggestions for Be future editions of the Alert? If so call the Service’s Corporate Communications team on 01606 868786 Alert!or email chris.blackham@cheshirefire.gov.uk 22 Farewells Leavers Heather Bottomley SHQ 20 Sept 2 yrs 8 mths FF Jayne Green Tarporley 15 Oct 8 yrs 1 mth Lynne Hampson Chester 2 Oct 2 yrs 11mths FF David Smith Audlem 29 Nov 11 yrs 6mths Gail Cash Warrington 2 Oct 11 yrs 5mths Retirements FF Leslie Warburton Wilmslow 4 Oct 30 yrs WM Stephen Davies Chester 16 Dec 31 yrs FF Graham Williams Crewe 8 Oct 30 yrs 7mths GM Adrian Luty SHQ (seconded) 18 Dec 30 yrs SM Matthew Hopkins SHQ 16 Nov 30 yrs 9mths CM Paul Hardwick Northwich 20 Dec 31 yrs Transfer CFO Steve McGuirk SHQ 4 Oct 11 yrs 4mths Advice to businesses
he Community Fire Protection Team (Halton) and the Business Liaison Advocates visited the Tindustrial estate at St Michaels Close, Ditton to carry out Fire Safety Audits and promote fire safety at work to business on the estate. While CFP officers conducted audits on a number of premises, advocates Sandra Buckle and Sarah Marshall CFP Team (left to right) Jan Jameson, Steve Hadden, Sarah visited other businesses to pass on guides explaining how to Marshall, Phil Blakemore, Sandra Buckle, Lee Shears. make premises safe from fire and information on arson reduction and unwanted fire signals. The causes of Community Fire Protection at Chester and the Business unwanted fire signals can Liaison Team created a buzz at the Port Arcades, Ellesmere vary and the Advocates Port raising awareness of the Fire Safety Order to local gave out information businesses. pointing out some of the The Outreach vehicle had a prominent position in the common causes to help town centre where the teams visited over 100 businesses in businesses become aware one day to provide advice and guidance on how to keep of how they can drive safe from arson, including an Arson Risk Assessment. In down this costly problem. addition they handed out the leaflet ‘A short guide to making The team engaged with your premises safe’ to ensure all the information is available a total of 42 businesses for businesses to comply with the Fire Safety Order. ranging from large The Outreach attracted a number of enquiries from manufacturing firms to business owners for HSA requests and Ellesmere Port Fire smaller food distribution Station brought the appliance for an hour to assist, coupled companies. The with a visit from Cllr Graham Smith which helped make the Cllr Graham Smith shows his information given out was whole day a huge success. interest. well received by all. End of year C MPETITION
In the “Alert” are a number of Santa's naughty little elves who are hiding. All you have to do is to count how many you can find throughout the edition. Once you think you have counted them all send an e-mail with the number to [email protected]. Two winners will be the first correct entries drawn on 26 January and will each win a £25 store voucher. (With thanks to Sharon Langer for being the inspiration for this competition). 23 Jason is 250cc
Sport & Welfare British Champion Chester Firefighter Jason Davis has nine pole position starts, a record in World Championships racing at the just won the British 250cc road itself. He also took eight race wins and British GP to 19th place. racing championship at the final was never off the podium all season On his emphatic win Jason round held at Oulton Park. apart from having two crashes. remarked, “I can’t think of a more fitting The series was run over 15 rounds Jason has now decided to retire at way to end my career. I have won the on the country’s premier circuits such the top of his sport and spend more championship, the race, got the fastest as Donington and Brands Hatch. The time with his “rock” - wife Donna and lap at my favourite circuit Oulton Park Green Watch crew member has led the his three children Meg, Hollie and Evie. and all in front of my friends and family. series from start to finish after ‘doing You can’t beat that’. Jason has had a career in road the double’ race win at the first round racing spanning 20 years and has Jason would like to thank the staff which was at Brand Hatch in Kent way raced in the 125cc, Superstock and at Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service for back in March. Superbike classes and was a factory all the support they have given him in On his way to the title Jason has rider for Honda in 1998. He also the last few years and the broke eight lap records and has had represented Great Britain twice in the congratulations that he has received. Mountain bike race The annual Firefighters Charity Mountain Bike Race organised byn Gypsy and Dickie Whitley and George Peers of the Sports & Welfare Cycling Section was held at Coed Llandegla Forest traveller just outside Wrexham on 18 October. The event was open to all and this On the winners podium Richard Whitley, George Peers and Mark Tabor. competition year saw 57 competitors entered, seven from CFRS, and representatives less than a minute separating the from North Wales, Staffordshire, South second and third spots at the finish. Yorkshire, and Merseyside took part In the women race Clare Page from with the rest of the field made up by Ellesmere Port came a very creditable members of the public. fourth. The course is custom built and In the veterans race there was covers approximately four miles, while somewhat of a surprise this year when the number of laps covered is decided the form book was thrown on it’s head The Traveller and Gypsy National by different age and ability classes so by a strong showing from Mark Tabor Drawing Competition that Crew there is always something for everyone, of Chester who beat fellow Cestrian Manager Stevie Rae and Green be it seasoned racer or complete George Peers, all be it this years Watch Ellesmere Port ran has novice. come to an end. The winner was a National Vets Champion and top 10 Racing on the day provided some nine-year-old boy from a finisher in the World Firefighters MTB great battles, in the Novice Fire Service Travellers site in Stratford upon race held in France into second place! category Rob Kershaw of Chester won Avon, Warwickshire. The organisers would like to thank after a valiant effort by Dale Pritchard One Planet Adventure for helping us Many good entries were received of Runcorn and Gareth Taylor from run the event and North Wales and it was very hard to judge the Headquarters to chase him down, with Mountain Rescue for medical and winners. First prize of a Fireman communication cover during the race. Sam fire engine and Fireman Sam Over £400 pounds was raised on the doll will be presented to the winner day for The Fire Fighters Charity. in the forthcoming weeks. There were six runner-ups, three of which Any members of the Sports and came from an encampment in Welfare who have bought bikes on the Ellesmere Port and the lucky cycle to work scheme and would children were recently presented perhaps like to give Mountain Biking or with their Fireman Sam by members road cycling a go please contact either of Green Watch. George Peers at Chester or Richard George and Claire going through their paces on a hill stretch. Whitley at Runcorn fire stations. 24