Union warns that the capital’s fire service is unprepared as one in six fire engines are unavailable.
One in six fire engines in London have been out of use daily in July due to staff shortages, according to recent data. Figures obtained by the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) also revealed that the capital’s sole fireboat, crucial for river rescues, has been unavailable for 13 shifts this month.
The data indicates that an average of 23 of London’s 142 fire engines have been unavailable each day due to understaffing, highlighting the ongoing impact of cuts to the fire service. This shortage comes a year after devastating wildfires affected parts of London, raising concerns over the city’s preparedness for future emergencies.
Matt Wrack, General Secretary of the FBU, criticised the ongoing cuts, stating, “One year on from the devastation of last summer’s wildfires, cuts are still leaving the fire service unprepared. This is putting lives and homes at risk.” He warned that these shortages could lead to further disasters as the impact of climate change intensifies, calling for a UK-wide wildfire strategy and more investment in the fire service.
Despite these concerns, London Fire Brigade (LFB) maintains it is “far better prepared” for a potential heatwave this year, having recruited 100 new staff trained in wildfire response and equipped with new gear. The LFB has been working throughout the year to ensure it is ready for extreme weather, following last year’s record temperatures of 40°C.
Dom Ellis, LFB Deputy Commissioner, emphasised that the brigade is increasing recruitment to ensure more fire engines are operational, and that resources are strategically deployed to meet demand. As Europe faces a heatwave with temperatures reaching 46°C, LFB is preparing for warmer and drier conditions in mid-August, hoping to be ready for any potential emergencies.
