Crews give busload of safety advice to local commuters

Cannock’s White Watch crew have been out spreading fire safety messages in the build-up to Christmas.

As part of our Be Warm Be Safe campaign, we’ve been visiting busy community locations across Staffordshire in a bid to reach the most vulnerable members of the community and make sure they are protected.

Local firefighters visited Cannock bus station on Friday (2 December) and spoke with commuters about fire safety. They gave out leaflets to raise awareness for the campaign, shared prevention tips and showed the public around one of Cannock’s many fire engines.

Important safety advice was also printed and displayed on the back of the buses – which follow a route through Cannock, Tamworth, Stafford and the surrounding areas.

Cannock’s Station Manager, Damian Armstrong, said: “Face-to-face interaction is one of the best possible ways to ensure we can protect our local community.

“This winter period has already seen more people using log burners, open fires, electric blankets and other ways to heat their homes and save money – which bring a whole host of different fire safety concerns.

“Some of these people are vulnerable and may not be aware of the risks – and more often than not, the only way to get the message across is to go out and chat to them personally.”

Local firefighters spoke with dozens of local commuters on the day. They discussed the best ways to keep safe over the festive period and advised on the following:

• If you have a chimney, ensure it is regularly inspected and swept. A blockage can lead to a deadly build-up of carbon monoxide in the home

• Ensure your smoke and carbon monoxide alarm is working

• If you are using a log-burner, make sure to use a fire guard. Never leave your logs or fuel source close to it and always make sure it’s fully out before leaving it unattended

• Only use dry wood for burning

• Don’t use your electric blanket if it has visible signs of damage or is emitting a buzzing noise or burning smell

Firefighters also discussed ways the most vulnerable could receive additional support, including:

• Booking safe and well visits with specially-trained crews. They are free and help to identify any potential hazards

• Dedicated warm spaces at local fire stations

Station Manager Armstrong added: “We will be continuing to visit different locations across the region to ensure we reach as many people as possible.

“It helps us out massively if you contact us and let us know about any concerns you might have. If you know friends or family who live alone or if they need extra support, please get in touch with us.”

For Safe and Well guidance and advice, call our Contact Centre on 0800 0241 999.

To read more on our Be Warm Be Safe campaign, visit: Don’t make cuts to your fire safety this winter (staffordshirefire.gov.uk)

For more information on our warm spaces scheme, visit: Service supports warm spaces scheme (staffordshirefire.gov.uk)