13 March 2007
Fire safety help and advice is now just a click away thanks to a national website launched today: www.fire.gov.uk
The Fire Gateway is an online service which will make it easier for anyone to contact their local brigade and submit requests for guidance.
The Gateway is not intended to deal with requests for emergency help, which should still be made by dialling 999.
It will allow users to:
It will also help make workplaces safer:
- businesses will be able to check their progress in complying with new fire safety regulations
Fire and Rescue Services Minister, Angela Smith, said the Gateway was a great example of central government and local fire authorities working together to improve public safety.
“The service has always been recognised for its excellence and professionalism when dealing with emergencies but it is now increasingly focussing on fire prevention work to great effect,” she explained.
West Yorkshire’s chief fire officer, Phil Toase, said that whilst the operational side of the service must never be forgotten a huge proportion of work was now geared towards prevention through education, partnership, advice and support.
“The Fire Gateway will provide a unique opportunity to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of our communications with the ultimate aim of making our homes and businesses even safer,” he added.
* The Fire Gateway project was initially proposed by the Chief Fire Officers’ Association (CFOA) , of which Mr. Toase is the current President. It has been funded by Communities and Local Government and developed in partnership with CFOA and the Local Government Association. During a successful pilot it attracted 40,000 separate users.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: Stephen Hardy, PR Unit, (01274)
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