Firefighters sign agreement to fight coronavirus

Firefighters will be able to deliver food and medicines, drive ambulances, and retrieve dead bodies during the coronavirus outbreak.

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU), fire chiefs, and Fire and Rescue Employers have agreed a joint national approach to the crisis, which they say reflects the scale of the national crisis and the urgency of the response required.

Firefighters will continue responding to core emergencies, such as fires and road traffic collisions, but, under the agreement, firefighters will now be able to: deliver essential items like food and medicines to vulnerable people; drive ambulances and assist ambulance staff; and retrieve dead bodies, should the outbreak cause mass casualties.

Any activities considered will be risk assessed with fire and rescue personnel being given any necessary additional training and the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Initially in place for two months, the agreement can be extended or shortened if agreed between all parties.

There are approximately 48,000 firefighters and emergency control staff in the UK. The Local Government Association represents all fire and rescue authorities in England and Wales.

Roy Wilsher, chair of the National Fire Chiefs Council, said: "All fire services are working to protect communities during COVID-19 and they will use their wide-range of capabilities and skills to ensure community reassurance and support; doing what they can to support people through this crisis. This joined-up approach is testament to the three organisations working together, to ensure fire and rescue services can be at the forefront of the response to the current situation. I look forward to continuing this joined-up work with the National Employers and FBU.”