The ten year fire safety plan

The New Zealand Fire Service has in place a 10 year strategic fire safety plan, specifically for "at risk groups," including the disability community. The overall aim is to target fire reduction education.

To ensure the plan continues to develop the fire service has hosted regional workshops, engaging the communities, to raise educational awareness. Follow up inspections of homes for disabled clients to increase their fire reduction awareness are offered, and professional advice is on hand relating to smoke alarms and sound fire safety advice in general.

Senior Fire Risk Management Officer, George Stephens regards these workshops as vital, as direct experiences of people living with a disability is crucial to forming fire prevention policy.

Strategic Partnerships are naturally formed at these workshops which identifies problems. Developing a strategy to fix the problems and some resources to support the strategy follows. When everyone is satisfied the strategy is implemented. After an appropriate period of time the strategy is assessed to test its effectiveness/ineffectiveness of the developed strategy.

“My Team are more committed to proactive rather than reacting to a problem. We don't want to have fires or injuries with any sector of our communities, but be assured that if such an issue does arise then we shall be targeting it immediately,” said George.

George wants to keep these established communications humming so if you need any further assistance in this or if you know of a fire related problem that may not have been recognised please use the contacts below.

Torrin Hona Community Ambassador Disabilities Strategy Auckland fire region. Ph 09 8159994  Mob 0212177681  Email torrin.batman@ihug.co.nz

George Stephens  |  Senior Fire Risk Management Officer - Strategic Partnerships, Auckland Region Headquarters. New Zealand Fire Service PO Box 68-444 Auckland  Ph 09 354 5150  Mob 027 4583206 Email george.stephens@fire.org.nz.

Ross Flood