Unusual visitor hopes to draw volunteers

A HIGHLY unusual vehicle will be parked in Western Road on Saturday, October 30.

Volunteers who help run the Fire And Emergency Support Service locally hope the public will take the opportunity to step on board and ask questions, for they are seeking new recruits.

The fire victim support service, as it was formally known, originated in the United States of America, where it was called disaster relief.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The American Red Cross had identified that there was a need for this service and put a number of units into action.

These proved to be so successful that there are now units working in towns and cities all over the country, and they account for some 93 per cent of all American Red Cross disaster work.

About 15 years ago two Red Cross volunteers from Berkshire were on holiday in America and happened to see one of these units in action. They were so impressed with the idea that when they returned to the UK they put the idea forward to the British Red Cross.

The service was tried out in three counties including Sussex, and was so well received that it was quickly extended to other areas.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Today there are some 46 units working in counties all over England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, with London being the only exception, though there are moves afoot to remedy this.

Three years ago the service went through a revamp and became known as Fire and Emergency Support Service better to encompass the work undertaken today.

The Fire and Emergency Support Service is a unique partnership between the British Red Cross and the Fire and Rescue Service.

At the request of the Fire Service its crews attend incidents to provide practical and emotional help and support when it is needed most.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

In Sussex, teams are based at Hastings, Haywards Heath and Littlehampton fire stations.

The service is looking for volunteers at all three locations.

The Hastings unit is based at Hastings Fire Station and holds regular meetings there.

Volunteers’ most recent call out was to the Hastings Pier fire, where rest and refreshment were provided for the emergency workers through the night and following day.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Training to carry out this vital task is offered on a local basis.

The service provides 24/7 cover. Volunteers are called out via fire and rescue service pager. However, at present the unit is struggling to cover all the hours required.

The local Fire And Emergency Support Service vehicle will in Western Road on Saturday, October 30 between 10am and 4pm.

Members of the public are invited to meet some of the team and see inside the vehicle.

Related topics: