SOMERSET residents can give their thoughts on possible changes to their fire service at a series of drop-in events over the summer.
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service has launched a public consultation on various proposals designed to save money and reflect the modern needs of the population it covers.
The proposals include the possibility of closing Porlock fire station within the Exmoor National Park, as well as reducing the number of fire engines being crewed at Bridgwater, Martock, Taunton and Yeovil.
As well as being able to give their views online, concerned residents can visit a handful of drop-in sessions across the county to put their views across and speak to fire staff directly.
A fire service spokesperson said: “We really want to hear what people have to say about the proposed service options, so please use this opportunity to engage with us and have your voice heard.
We have created a number of ways in which people can engage with the consultation, so you can choose which method best suits you.”
Drop-in events will be taking place in Somerset on the following dates:
July 25: Porlock Village Hall, Toll Road (New Road), Porlock – 1-5pm
July 30: Taunton Library, Paul Street, Taunton – 1-5pm
August 22: Minehead Library, Bancks Street, Minehead – 11am-3pm
August 27: Bridgwater Library, Binford Place, Bridgwater – 12-4pm
August 28: Yeovil Library, King George Steeet, Yeovil – 1-5pm
August 29: Frome Library, Justice Lane, Frome – 10am-2pm
A number of drop-in dates are also planned for the Devon, Plymouth and Torbay areas which will be most affected.
Once the consultation is completed, finalised proposals will be considered by the fire authority before the end of the year.
Speaking at a meeting on June 28 where the consultation was agreed, assistant chief fire officer Pete Bond said: “At present our resources are allocated on old standards of fire cover. The risks around us have changed in 50-60 years – we don’t live and work in the same way.
“These proposals are not about saving huge amounts of money – they are about reinvesting that money in prevention work. If we can do that, people will be saved.”
The online consultation will be available on the fire service’s website until September 22. To complete the questionnaire visit www.dsfire.gov.uk/safertogether.
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