Fire spending cuts could increase deaths

The Government has been warned that fire service spending cuts could increase the likelihood of injuries and deaths occurring.

Slashing spending on fire services could prove fatal, according to the four 'Fire Futures' reports handed out to the Communities and Local Government department.

'Fire Futures,' which have been compiled by David Milsted, chair of the fire service delivery models and Lib-Dem stalwart of Dorset Council Fire and Rescue Authority, warns that fire spending cuts of 30 per cent have been proposed.

If the cuts are phased in across all 46 fire and rescue services, it could result in increased fire deaths and property losses, he said.

"For many and perhaps most [fire and rescue services], these funding reductions will imperil their ability to carry out risk-based budgeting and implement their local Integrated Risk Management Plans (IRMPs), let alone play an effective part in the National Framework.

"When all the frills have been removed, every spare ounce of fat burned off, and every possible efficiency saving identified and implemented, there will remain only real cuts to the core service and a real increase in casualties and property loss," added Mr Milsted.

The report calls for an improved integration of fire, rescue and emergency services, using pooled resources and facilities to best serve the public.

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