Review of Operational Effectiveness of South Wales Fire and Rescue Service by Chief Fire and Rescue Advisor and Inspector for Wales

An inspection by the Chief Fire and Rescue Advisor and Inspector (CFRAI) for Wales, Dan Stephens QFSM, was recently commissioned at the request of the Commissioners for South Wales Fire and Rescue Service to assess the operational effectiveness of the Service when responding to domestic dwelling fire incidents.

Undertaken in July and August 2024, a total of 252 incidents occurring between 1 April 2021 – 31 March 2023 were analysed in detail in the format of visits and fieldwork to review the Service’s operational procedures, breathing apparatus, and incident command tactics.

As with the recently commissioned HMICFRS inspection, it is felt that this additional inspection by the Chief Fire and Rescue Advisor will complement the previous thematic review and the Morris Review.

The recently published report highlights concerns that operational tactics employed by the Service have placed Firefighters at unnecessary risk and/or resulted in avoidable damage to properties.

Although the findings of the report may seem concerning, the Service would like to reassure and reiterate to members of the public that the criticism is directed at tactics and procedures dictated by operational guidelines agreed at National Fire Chief Council (NFCC) level, and not at SWFRS Officers and Firefighters.

The Commissioners are pleased that the Welsh Government response makes clear there is no criticism in the report of SWFRS frontline Firefighters, and that the issue is surrounding training, equipment, and tactics at a national level.

Whilst the Commissioners recognise and value the findings of the report, and are committed to implementing most of the recommendations made – which should allow SWFRS to be at the forefront of leading the way for operational firefighting – they have also made clear that some of the recommendations, including changes to the shift system, are areas that require much more detailed analysis and risk assessment, and any immediate changes would be premature and presumptive.

Work has already commenced, and a dedicated Officer has been identified to work exclusively on reviewing and implementing the recommendations.

The Commissioners would like to reiterate that South Wales Fire and Rescue Service is committed to working with Welsh Government and the Chief Fire and Rescue Advisor and Inspector, to ensure that as a Service, our crews continue to provide a first-class service to our communities in their time of need, and to assure staff of our continued confidence in them.