'Serious concerns' over how service prevents fires

Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service has been rated "inadequate" by inspectors for preventing fire and risk

A fire service has been rated "inadequate" by inspectors for preventing blazes and told it must improve how it responds to emergencies.

Inspectors said Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue was, however, good at responding to major incidents, managing performance and developing leaders.

A report from His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) said it had "serious concerns" over its effectiveness in preventing them and that it was not "a sufficiently high priority".

Chief fire officer for Hertfordshire, Alex Woodman, said "Our service is on a journey to becoming outstanding. To achieve that we must continuously look to enhance and improve."

Chief fire officer for Hertfordshire, Alex Woodman, said progress has been made

The publication of the full report followed what inspectors called an accelerated cause for concern in October when the service was told it had to carry out home fire safety checks as a "matter of urgency".

Inspector Lee Freeman said they were "pleased the service has made some progress in other areas" since its last full inspection in 2022.

Mr Freeman added the service had addressed "issues in fire control with improved structure and management" and fixed an "issue with risk information being accessible to crews."

His principal findings were that:

• Current processes do not effectively assess vulnerability or target those most at risk from fire.

• The service should make sure staff are productive and time is spent effectively

• Culture and understanding of values was much improved

'Good work'

Mr Freeman added he did not "underestimate how much improvement was needed".

He said inspectors would continue to monitor the service's attempts to address the issues raised.

Hertfordshire's chief fire officer Alex Woodman said the report showed the "good work we have done since our last inspection".

He added the service has a "zero-tolerance approach to unacceptable behaviour", adding "everyone has the right to a happy, healthy, and safe working environment".

A further visit by inspectors is expected later this year.