BRIDGWATER firefighters are worried as there is a possibility they could lose the third fire engine from the town’s station.

The Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service Authority (DSFRSA) has been working on its Change and Improvement Plan which will guide how the authority delivers services in years to come.

It is believed part of the plan is to move from a demand-based model to more of a risk-based model and this will alter how resources are dispersed.

Although nothing concrete has been decided, it has been reported that one of the changes would be to reduce the third appliance from Bridgwater, Taunton and Yeovil.

Cllr Leigh Redman, who is a representative on the DSFRSA board and former firefighter, said: “Although there is no firm proposal on the table yet, there is an indication the third appliance in Bridgwater is at risk.

“Any proposal to cut fire cover to my community would be wrong, Bridgwater station and the staff that work there know what good cover is.

“I will support any campaign to maintain the current cover as it is.

“I look forward to having any proposal confirmed so that we all know what is ahead.

“If there is any proposal for a cut, I will seek evidence from the authority used to justify such a move.”
One Bridgwater firefighter told the Mercury: “I would be concerned for the safety of the local public if the Bridgwater Station were to lose a fire engine.”

Assistant chief fire officer for Devon and Somerset Pete Bond said: “The Service is currently talking to staff about a major change and improvement programme and a key part of this involves looking at the number and type of fire appliances needed at our stations. 

“We need to ensure our resources are in the right place to deal with incidents efficiently, and at the same time increase our business safety and prevention work in the community.

“It is important that we take the opportunity to talk to staff about any changes that may affect them before any decisions are made. 

“Significant changes will be subject to public consultation.”