Issue - meetings

The Group considered a report highlighting the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s (SFRS) FQ3 review of local performance across Helensburgh and Lomond for the period 2021-22. The report included information around incidents during this period; recent community safety activity; and new smoke detector legislation. Barry Colvan provided an overview of the report, and also highlighted ongoing partnership working on water safety; the Covid-19 testing facility at Arrochar Fire Station; the Seasonal Community Action Calendar; and restrictions still in place due to the Covid-19 pandemic which impacted on the level of community engagement work which could be carried out. He encouraged anyone who had any concerns relating to fire safety to get in touch.

Discussion took place around new smoke detector legislation, and it was noted that it was the responsibility of property owners to ensure that they complied with this, however guidance was available through the Scottish Government and SFRS. The Chair agreed to distribute a briefing note to the Group following the meeting which provided further information around this.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report by Barry Colvan, Watch Commander/Local Authority Liaison Officer, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, submitted)

The Group considered a report highlighting the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s (SFRS) FQ3 review of local performance across Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands for the period 2021-22. Barry Colvan highlighted the decrease in accidental dwelling fires; work being carried out to assist and support other agencies; an increase in Home Fire Safety Visits; and the use of local staff and social media to share important messages.

Barry advised that advice was available from SFRS staff but emphasised that it was the responsibility of the home owner to ensure that home smoke detector systems complied with the new legislation which had come into effect in early 2022.

Decision

The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report by Barry Colvan, Watch Commander/Local Authority Liaison Officer, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, submitted)

Update by Scottish Fire and Rescue Service

The Group considered a report highlighting the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s (SFRS) FQ2 review of local performance across Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands for the period 2021-22.

James Sullivan advised that there had been an overall reduction in incidents compared to the same period of the previous year, and fortunately there had been no fire casualties recorded during this period. He confirmed that home fire safety visits were taking place and although SFRS had been unable to attend schools in person due to the ongoing safety measures in place, work had been undertaken with the Education department to provide information to pupils on issues such as water, bonfire and firework safety.

James noted that guidance was being prepared in relation to the new fire alarm legislation coming into force in 2022, and this guidance would be available from all fire stations across the area in due course.

Decision

The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report by James Sullivan, Watch Commander/Local Authority Liaison Officer, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, submitted)