Brand new body worn cameras have been rolled out across County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) in time to support firefighter safety this fireworks season.
CDDFRS began piloting the equipment in 2021 but have recently upgraded the cameras, ensuring all wholetime fire stations as well as Business and Community Safety teams are equipped with the recording technology.
This upgraded technology supports the 360-degree CCTV systems the service has already installed in every fire engine.
Welcoming the latest investment, Chief Fire Officer (CFO) Steve Helps said: “The lead up to November 5th is traditionally the busiest period for fire services across the UK, and CDDFRS is no exception.
“The vast majority of people in the area we serve are respectful and considerate and deserve to enjoy all the fun and excitement that Bonfire Night and the days leading up to it brings.
“Sadly, however, we’ve already seen a rise in anti-social-behaviour and, most worryingly, attacks on our hard-working firefighters.”
So far this month, firefighters have on four separate occasions arrived at incidents only to have fireworks, rocks and other missiles hurled at them by young people.
CFO Helps said: “No one goes to work to be assaulted, especially not our firefighters, many of whom chose their career based on their desire to keep other people safe.
“As Chief Fire Officer, the safety and wellbeing of my staff is a top priority and I hope this investment in recording technology helps keep our frontline firefighters safe.
“Let this be a warning to those amongst us who would consider harming a firefighter as they go about their duties, you risk being caught on camera, and we will on every occasion report the offence to the police and seek a criminal conviction for assaulting an emergency services worker. Ask yourself, is it worth it?”
He added: “Please, don’t be one of the minority that ruins Bonfire Night for the majority this year. By working together and being kind and considerate, we can all have a better Bonfire Night.”
