Public warning over "threadbare" fire service cover as "worst may happen" after Costa blaze highlights perils
The public have been warned their “safety is exposed” with cover from the fire service now “threadbare” amid fears the “worst may happen”.
The fire at Costa Coffee on Isambard Brunel Road around 2pm on Wednesday sparked a huge fire service response as firefighters from Southsea, Cosham, Havant and Waterlooville attended the blaze.
The incident sparked concerns from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire Brigade Union which revealed services were stretched amid concerns the “worst could happen” as a result.
Meanwhile a blaze around the same time at Asda at the Bridge Shopping Centre in Somers Road North, Fratton, led to crews from Fareham and Gosport being drafted in to respond to the fire.
A statement posted on Wednesday night from the union highlighted how the situation now poses a risk to life. “We advise members in Hampshire and Isle of Wight to stay extra safe and vigilant this evening,” it read.
“There is currently no emergency response capability from Cosham and Southsea fire stations. All fire engines from Cosham and Southsea are committed to a single incident. Fareham and Waterlooville have also been drawn into the city due to an automatic fire alarm in Southsea.
“When the fire engines do return to station there will be a reduced crew of seven (instead of 10) able to respond from Cosham. The fire cover is now threadbare and your safety is exposed.
“We bring this to your attention as the impact of cuts has now left this once great life saving service in a perilous condition.”
The union added: “The firefighters who serve you are genuinely concerned and quite rightly so. They know the risks, see the gaps where firefighters and fire engines should be and know it’s only a matter of time before the worst may happen.”
In response, assistant chief fire officer for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue, Rob Cole, said: “Within minutes of the first call being received, six fire engines, an aerial ladder platform and a command support vehicle were sent. Our Control Room operators mobilised further fire engines to the Portsmouth fire stations, ensuring sufficient cover was provided when subsequent incidents arose.
“Moving fire engines to provide fire cover to an area where local resources are dealing with a large incident is standard practice for all fire services across the UK. This ensures the ability to respond to 999 calls should a second incident occur. This incident was no different.
“We acknowledge the FBU's concerns about government funding, as the cost of delivering our vital services has surpassed the funding we receive. We are collaborating with the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) to advocate for increased funding from central government.”