Issue - meetings

            The Board considered a report from Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service presenting the Annual Report for Halton 2016 and an update on Integrated Risk Management Plan for 2017-18 (IRMP). Consultation on the draft IRMP for 2017/18 was underway and would continue until the 3^rd January 2017. During this time the Service would consult with the public, key partners and stakeholders and members of staff.

            Proposals within the second emergency response review and wider draft plan included:-

·         Cheshire Fire Authority’s proposal to increase its share of Council Tax by 1.99% in 2017/18;

·         To review the duty systems at Birchwood, Macclesfield, Penketh and Wilmslow fire stations;

·         Move from three hydraulic platforms to two across the Service;

·         Introduction of an additional fire engine at Crewe and Ellesmere Port fire stations, staffed during weekdays;

·         Rolling out the pilot programme to respond to cardiac arrests alongside North West Ambulance Service;

·         Delivering “Safe and Well” visits to 40,000 households to provide health information as well as fire safety advice;

·         A new policy to reduce the number of attendances to false alarms caused by automatic fire alarm systems; and

·         Promoting the need to install sprinkler systems in new schools.

            On behalf of Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, Lynsey McVay attended the meeting and outlined her role, the Service performance in Halton during the past three years, type of incidents attended and areas the Service would focus on for 2016/17.

            Arising from the discussion, the Board requested additional information on the number of Fire Service inspections at the East Lane buildings in Runcorn.

            RESOLVED: That the Board

1.    note the range of fire safety and prevention programmes aimed at keeping Halton safe;

2.    record our continuing appreciation for the work of Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service; and

3.    receive the Annual Report 2016.