PAPER C1

Committee: FIRE AND PUBLIC SAFETY SELECT COMMITTEE

Date: 15 APRIL 2002

Title: COMMUNITY FIRE SAFETY BEST VALUE REVIEW 2001-02

REPORT OF THE CHIEF FIRE OFFICER

SUMMARY/PURPOSE

This Best Value Review has been carried out as one of two Fire Service specific reviews undertaken in year 2, on behalf of Her Majesty’s Fire Service Inspectorate which issued guidance to Fire Authorities about Best Value Reviews. The Review followed best practice guidelines and guidance to undertake Best Value Reviews from the Audit Commission and Isle of Wight Council.

BACKGROUND

The Review looked at a wide range of issues contained within the scope but focused in on six main aims:

§ To consider whether Community Fire Safety is now the primary focus of the Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service.

§ To consider whether the Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service is putting fire and casualty reduction at the centre of both policy and activity.

§ To assess the Brigades performance so far in achieving a society in which preventable fires, fatalities and casualties in the home are eliminated.

§ To assess the Brigades performance in reducing the number fires in dwellings by 33% over 5 years.

§ To assess the Brigades performance in reducing the number of accidental fire deaths by 40% over 5 years.

§ To assess the Brigades performance in reducing serious non-fatal casualties by 5 % year on year.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are financial implications contained in the report in relation to the six main aims reviewed, as well as financial implications within the improvement plan, yet to be detailed. These financial implications have been made known to Members previously, at the Appraisal Group stage.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Members of the Fire and Public Safety Select Committee are asked to note the recommendations and support the outcomes of the review, and suggest any other recommendations or improvements thought necessary.

BACKGROUND PAPERS

Contained in the report.

Contact Point: Divisional Officer A Southcott, Senior Fire Safety Officer F 823185

R HARDS

Chief Fire Officer