sfrsStaffordshire Fire and Rescue Service has revealed record-breaking reductions in the number of incidents that crews have been called to in the last year.

Between April 2012-March 2013 crews attended a total of 9,291 incidents – compared to 11,654 the previous year.

Key role of prevention & education
Chief Fire Officer Peter Dartford said the Service’s prevention and education work had played a key role in reducing the number of incidents.

Sixteen people were injured in accidental fires in homes from April 2012-March 2013 –five fewer casualties than the year before.

Accidental deaths caused by blazes in residential properties also went down to four between April 2012 and March 2013 compared to six the previous year.

Committed to further reducing fire incidents
CFO Dartford added: “The record-breaking figures that we have revealed today are a testament to the hard work and dedication of all of our staff who deal with a wide range of emergencies on a regular basis. However, despite recording our lowest ever number of incidents we will not become complacent.

"Any fire or other emergency that causes harm or distress within our communities is one too many. We remain absolutely committed to further reducing the number of incidents we attend and we will continue to strive to do so in the future."

Home Fire Risk Checks
Elsewhere, the Service completed 32,256 Home Fire Risk Checks from April 2012-March 2013; an increase of 4,997 when compared to the previous 12 months.

It also reduced hoax phone calls – which can take vital frontline crews away from potentially life-threatening situations – from 580 two years ago to 337 last year.