Calon Tan Q1 2010 (English) by Paul Thomas

Q1 2010

CM Y

Mid and West Wales FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE

A look at the Mid and West’s New Fire Kit

GWASANAETH TÂN AC ACHUB Canolbarth a Gorllewin Cymru

New Year, New PPE

calon

Specialist search and rescue team on the Caribbean island of Haiti to assist in the international effort

tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Ca lon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon ân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Ca Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân

Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Ca lon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon ân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Ca Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon tân Calon

MAWWFIRE Official Magazine

tân

Life Line

09:04:41

18/02/2010

A0144-01-E_cover.pdf

CMY

In Conversation

Calon Tân talks to Sam Carter, A Neath Port Talbot Firefighter

Award for Wildcamp in Pembrokeshire

Activities including the Fire Service, Army, RNLI, Lifeguards, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and the Police

Wise Up To Welsh

Welsh Language Awareness Seminar 1st March 2010

Contents: 03

Letters of Thanks

In Conversation

Jacqui Maunder | Head of Corporate Communications & Member Support Bridget Bassett | Member Support Officer Paul Thomas | Web Systems Administrator

Ffynnon the new Corvu

Award for Wildcamp in Pembrokeshire

Editor | Jacqui Maunder Corporate Communications & Member Support

In The Woods With Neath Port Talbot

Chairman of the Fire Authority Awarded MBE

Book A Home Fire Safety Check On Your Mobile

Staff Suggestion Scheme Needs You!

In a Class of their own

Wise Up To Welsh

In Focus: Llanelli

Shaping Our Future

Editorial Team:

Designer | Paul Thomas Corporate Communications & Member Support

Tel: 01267 226 860 ext 4460 Email: j.maunder@mawwfire.gov.uk Tel: 01267 226 862 ext 4462 Email: p.thomas@mawwfire.gov.uk

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Three Wise Men Hitchhike to Bethlehem

Claiming our history, celebrating our present, and creating our future

Safety On The ‘INSIDE’

Return of the Magnificent 7

Don’t be Afraid of your Local Chaplain - they don’t ’bite!’

International Women’s Day (IWD) 8th March 2010

Ladies Driving Challenge 2010 - Girls get your heels on our wheels!

Annual Carol Service

Calon Tan is Listening…….

Dates for the Diary

Risk Reduction Annual Action Plan 2011/2012

Keeping Your Heart Healthy

Fire Service Gets Loud About Bowel Cancer!

New Year, New PPE

Firelink

The Calon Tân production team would like to thank everyone who contributed to this edition.

Calon Tan is printed on 100% recycled paper.

18/02/2010 11:13:24

Letters of Thanks Nolan uPVC

Call Out

I wanted to write to express my thanks and to commend the actions of the Mid & West Wales Fire & Rescue Service and to all the crews that attended the fire at Nolan uPVC on Friday 11th December 2009. Those in attendance did a remarkable job in containing the fire and as a result we were able to return to work on the Monday.

“ I want to compliment your Fire Officers. On Saturday morning my fire alarm in the house was faulty and as a 24 hour oxygen user and ventilator user I was nervous. Two Fire Officers came round almost immediately and sorted out the problem……….the promptness and kindness of the Officers was impressive, they made me feel my problem and my concerns were important to them ”

I am delighted to say that thanks to the efforts of the Mid & West Wales Fire & rescue Service that the business is back in full production, which wouldn’t have been possible without the outstanding job all the firefighters did on the day.

Mrs F., Aberystwyth

The efforts of the local fire service can not be underestimated and I thank you and your crews for all they did that day” Mr Nolan Nicholas

Call Out “ I would like to pass on my sincere gratitude to the two fire officers from Llandysul Fire Station who attended my home last night and carried out a fire safety assessment. I found their advice most helpful but was mostly impressed by their professionalism. Following their recommendations I have implemented several changes to various sockets and electrical appliances”

ISAR Team Mission to Haiti “ I just want to say thank you for going out so quickly and doing such an amazing job in Haiti. As a Hiatian living in the UK I am touched by your speed and diligence. You gave hope to the Hiatians, to their families overseas and to the world as you pulled out person after person. I was proud to be able to share the great work with my family back in Haiti who do not have access to TV to see what you have done. Once again thank you” Jean-Marc Flambert

Neris Davies, Llandysul Flood Rescue Aberteifi School Visit “ I am writing to thank you for coming to the Ysgol Uwchradd Aberteifi to offer the pupils the opportunity to explore the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse….. the pupils benefited from receiving information from professionals such as you who experience first hand the results of such abuse. Thank you for your time and your willingness to share these with our pupils, it was greatly appreciated” Headteacher Ysgol Uwchradd Aberteifi

“ I would like to take the opportunity of thanking you all for recovering my vehicle and family from flood waters this evening. I cannot apologise enough for what must seem a great waste of resources, but this was a genuine error of judgment resulting in the cars system shutting down. The officers who attended were polite and courteous, allowing my children to take shelter in the Engine. As a person with Parkinson’s disease, I was unable to help myself so my gratitude and relief are genuine. It would give my family great please if you would allow us to make a donation to the recipient of your choice – again thank you all very much” Mr C. Tenby 03

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18/02/2010 11:13:25

In Conversation Calon T창n talks to Sam Carter, A firefighter with Neath Port Talbot Command

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18/02/2010 11:13:26

What was your first job? My first job was as a working pupil at a riding centre near Abergavenney. I worked a six day week and was paid £25 per week. I loved it. Working with and riding horses all day. Brill! What’s your idea of a perfect night in or night out? I’m a bit boring these days. My ideal night out would be going out for a meal in a fancy restaurant with good company and then out for a few drinks in a quiet country pub in front of a log fire. If you could invite four guests to a dinner party (living or dead) who would they be and why? Well David Attenborough would be top of my list. I think he would have plenty of extremely interesting subjects to talk about. I don’t think the conversation would ever get boring Then it would have to be the lead singer of the stereophonics Kelly Jones. What an amazing voice he has. He could provide the entertainment with a few tunes and he’s not too bad to look at either. Then it would have to be Rob Brydon. I think he is a very funny man and would provide a good evenings entertainment. Then I would have to ask Jamie Oliver to assist with the meal. I really like his simple easy attitude when it comes to food. I’m also useless in the kitchen so I would definitely need the help. What was the first and last album you bought? The first album was Madonna ‘Holiday’ oh my that was a while ago now…. And the last was ‘the script’ Brilliant album!!! What food would you never, ever touch? Internal organs!!! If you could be any animal, what animal would you be and why? My cat Sylvester. All he does is eat and sleep. Bliss. Mind you he gets kicked out at night. Don’t fancy that!! Which figure of fact or fiction most inspires you and why? I’m in love with David Attenborough. What an amazing man ( bit old now maybe ) I would love to travel the world and witness the wonders he has. Without getting too heavy we all need to look after our planet!!! What is your dream holiday destination? I would really love to ski Canada and America. I’ve heard it is amazing. Unfortunately my wages don’t spread that far. Tell us one thing about yourself that we wouldn’t guess from looking at you? I keep tropical fish . . . . . What is the best thing about working for MWWFRS? Knowing that I have got a very safe, secure well respected job. If there was one thing you could change about the organisation what would it be? I won’t get too political about this question as there is not enough space!!!! But I would change the stupid logo!! Its nothing to be proud of is it let’s be honest!!

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18/02/2010 11:13:30

Ffynnon the new Corvu

In addition, Ffynnon delivers collaborative functionality which allows users to benchmark their performance with others; share and compare performance information across organisations; and discuss performance issues via a discussion forum and national knowledge library. Ffynnon is a web based system and allows stakeholders to engage with their strategic partners to deliver “shared” performance pictures at Local Service Board level, for example. Chief Fire Officer Richard Smith said:“The Service will have the flexibility to track and drive forward performance share information for the benefit of all. Working in this way we have the potential to deliver huge gains in our performance’.” The table below shows an outline of the key phases in moving from CorVu to Ffynnon. Actions

Time Scales

By Janine Owen, Operational Risk Management (ORM)

Phase 1

The Strategic Planning and Performance Department are committed to support and help drive performance improvement on behalf of the service.

Critically review the current amount of January – June 2010 performance measures to establish a revised list of measures that provide true added value for the Service and key stakeholders.

Phase 2

Data migration and systems build.

July – August 2010

Phase 3

Systems evaluation and staff development. (with CorVu and Ffynnon running as mirror systems)

September 2010– January 2011

Phase 4

Archive CorVu database.

Go live with Ffynnon 1st April 2011

Following Policy Board approval, the department has started a project to transfer the Services’ performance management system from CorVu to Ffynnon. Ffynnon is a fully integrated performance, risk and project management software system that enables information sharing within and across organisational boundaries. Whilst providing a unique opportunity to create a performance management community and culture within and across the public sector and other emergency services. The following stakeholders are currently using Ffynnon, 22 Local Authorities, National Park Authorities, North and South Wales Fire and Rescue Services, Local Government Data Unit, Welsh Assembly Government, Arts Council, South Wales Police (pilot), Anglesey LHB (pilot). The Ffynnon system has many additional features which includes ease of use which will benefit all those that use the system. It has an easy to understand and a user-friendly environment which enables essential documents to be stored and retrieved.

Award for Wildcamp in Pembrokeshire By Jeremy Trew, Pembrokeshire Community Fire Safety Department

Phase 1 of the project involves a critical review of all the current performance measures. To assist in Phase 1, Commands and Department Heads provided the Strategic Planning and Performance with nominations to ensure that key staff have an active role in this project. End users of the performance management system are also encouraged to forward suggestions for improvement, ensuring we end up with the best system to give the Service added value. Further information regarding this project is available from Station Manager Dai Swan.

Five days at Castlemartin Army Camp in South Pembrokeshire, a different activity each day with the Fire Service, Army, RNLI, Lifeguards, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and the Police. Was this an adventure holiday or a ‘get me out of here’ trial? This is what 30 teenagers did last summer when they attended the first Wildcamp week organised by the Pembrokeshire Community Safety Partnership.

Wild camp is an initiative intended to divert youths who are likely to become offenders, teaching them skills and teamwork which in turn helps build self esteem and confidence. MWWFRS is a member of the Partnership and the Community Safety team in Pembrokeshire Command were the hosts for a day. The day started with basic Fire Service skills including hose and ladder drills at Pembroke Dock Fire Station, culminating in the training school favourite of a hose line circling the station. Then after lunch we went to Haverfordwest Fire Station where Blue Watch gave a Road Traffic Collision (RTC) demonstration during which a volunteer was cut from a vehicle, the abilities of the Ariel Rescue Pump (ARP) were demonstrated and a chip pan fire demonstration was given. The group was then split up into crews for a Breathing Apparatus exercise in the Smoke House. This tested some of the youngsters’ fear of the dark and completing the claustrophobic rat runs gave a real sense of achievement. Comments at the end of the course included, “I have more courage than I thought” and “I can do things if I put my mind to it”. The success of the venture was demonstrated by Wildcamp being awarded the Youth Excellence Award for Collaborative Working at the Pembrokeshire Youth Awards, beating some strong competition. Planning is now under way for the next summer’s Wildcamp and an increase to seven days with even more activities. 06 A0144-lar-E.indd 6

18/02/2010 11:13:36

The Neath Port Talbot Command Rural and Forestry Team (RaFT) was formed in April 2009, the initiative has been funded by a Welsh Assembly Government grass and forestry arson reduction grant. The team consists of six personnel who undertake the role in addition to other full time roles they hold within MWWFRS. The broad aim of the initiative is to build safer rural communities and to protect the environment. More specifically, the principal objectives of the team are to target anti-social behaviour in the form of deliberate rural fire setting and to reduce the risk posed to operational personnel and the public by the fly tipping of hazardous waste such as gas cylinders, asbestos and tyres. The team works with members of the community, the service’s arson reduction team and a variety of partner organisations in order to find sustainable solutions to resolve these problems. In the first six months of operations the command has seen a reduction in deliberate grass fires of 22% compared to the same period in 2008. The team undertake patrols in both rural and rural urban fringe areas utilising a range of vehicles which include 4x4s and off road motorcycles. These specialist vehicles enable the team to function more efficiently in environments that have traditionally been considered difficult to access such as dense forestry and the upper heath land areas of the command. Whilst the main focus of the team is problems affecting the valley communities where it is estimated that 30% of the population of Neath Port Talbot County Borough reside, during October and November the team undertook an initiative in the Sandfields and Aberavon areas of Port Talbot, a large urban conurbation containing 8,712 dwellings. The three electoral wards which cover the area all have ‘communities first’ status and experience higher than normal levels of anti- social behaviour during the Halloween and Bonfire Night Festivals. This behaviour includes the building of oversized, inappropriately located bonfires containing hazardous waste material. Most worryingly, there have also been incidents of stone throwing at personnel engaged in extinguishing out of control fires in the area. In order to address these problems ‘Operation Fire Watch’ was run by the team in cooperation with the local Neighbourhood Policing Team and supported by the four watches of Port Talbot Fire Station. A range of community risk reduction activities were undertaken over a ten day period which included patrols and home safety visits in hot spot areas, attendance at youth engagement events and fire safety and crime reduction visits to local businesses. A0144-lar-E.indd 7

In The Woods With Neath Port Talbot By Charlie Malone, Community Fire Safety, Neath Port Talbot Command Following the initiative, statistics supplied by the service’s SP&P department and Neath Port Talbot’s anti-social behaviour team indicate that compared to the same period in 2008 there was a 60% reduction in deliberate fires and a 47% reduction in overall anti-social behaviour in 2009. More recently the RaFT have been working in partnership with Police Officers, visiting farms and other isolated homes throughout the command, offering home fire safety and crime reduction advice. Many of these dwellings are difficult to access and particularly vulnerable to both crime and fire owing to their age and unmodernised condition. Team members report that the majority of properties visited have not had properly sited or working smoke alarms and many occupants have not previously received any home fire safety advice from the service. An application based on the activities undertaken by the team 2009 have been made for an ‘Excellence Wales’ award for local government organisations as well as a South Wales Police ‘Best example of partnership working’ award. During 2010, the team will roll out the Fire Watch initiative to other urban areas within the command; however its long term objective still remains, to improve the social and economic prospects of the rural communities in the western valleys, by making them safer places to live, work and enjoy recreation. 07 18/02/2010 11:13:40

Chairman of the Fire Authority Awarded MBE Councillor Eurfyl Evans, Chairman of the Fire and Rescue Authority, Ceredigion Councillor and former police detective has been awarded the MBE in the New Year´s Honours List for services to local government in West Wales and in particular for our Fire Authority. Councillor Evans, who represents the Llanarth ward as a Liberal Democrat on the County Council is a member of the cabinet and holds the portfolio for Tourism and Economic Development. A native of Ceibach near New Quay he became a County Councillor in 1996 after serving at Dyfed Powys Police Force since 1969, where he was a detective stationed at Cardigan for many years. Mr. Evans did a significant amount of undercover work during the Seal Bay drugs operation in north Pembrokeshire in 1983 when he lived in Eglwyswrw. In 1989 he and his wife Ann took over the Llanina Arms in Llanarth where they remained for 14 years before retiring to live in Ceibach. They have three children, Rhian, Nerys and Bleddyn, and four granddaughters. Taken aback by the award Mr. Evans said: “I did not have any idea whatsoever and I am obviously delighted and honoured and I would like to pay tribute to my family and also my constituents for the support they have shown me over the years.” Chief Fire Officer, Richard Smith added: “I am delighted that Eurfyl´s unstinting contribution to the work of Local Government, and particularly the Fire and Rescue Authority has been recognised in this way. He has been a stalwart of the Fire Authority since its formation in 1996 and to add the award of an MBE to his achievements to date is a great testimony to his dedication to service. I know I speak on behalf of all of my colleagues in the Fire and Rescue Service in offering my heartfelt congratulations to him.

By Bridget Bassett, Corporate Communication & Member Support (CCMS)

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18/02/2010 11:13:44

BOOK A HOME FIRE SAFETY CHECK ON YOUR MOBILE

The three fire and rescue services in Wales are committed to reaching out and communicating with everyone in their communities. An innovative example of this commitment is the recent introduction of a mobile phone based SMS Text service. In recent years the public have been able to apply for a Free HFSC by calling a FREEPHONE telephone number or by registering on a fire service website. However as part of the Wales Fire and Rescue Services’ ambitions to build safer communities and engage with a broader section of people in Wales, the SMS text service has just been launched. This has been a collaborative venture between North, South and the Mid & West Wales services made possible with funding form the Welsh Assembly Government. All members of the public can now book a free Home Fire Safety Check by simply sending an SMS text message starting with HFSC and followed by their name to the short-code number 88365. It is hoped that this new facility will encourage even more people to apply for a Home Fire Safety Check helping to reduce the numbers of domestic fires and it should be of particular benefit to those who are deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired.

SO HOW DOES IT WORK? SMS stands for the short message service which is supported by all of the mobile telephone networks. It enables one mobile user to send a text message to another but can also be used for commercial and public sector activities too. SMS based competitions often appear on the TV and many local authorities now use SMS for reporting defective street lighting and other community matters. In this instance the SMS message will be converted into an email and sent to the relevant community safety team at either of the three fire and rescue services dependant on where the ‘caller’ was at the time they sent their SMS message. An automated SMS Text receipt will then be immediately sent back to the caller’s mobile phone confirming a message has been forwarded to a community safety team and advising them that they will be contacted within the next three working days in order to agree the details of the HFSC visit form a community safety representative. To book a HFSC via SMS text, callers need to follow these simple steps: • • •

Step 1 - Start a new text message and enter “HFSC” and your name. Step 2 - send the text to 88365 (For callers who are deaf, or have a hearing or speech impairment add “deaf” after your name) - the cost of the text message is between 10p and 15p. Step 3 - You will receive a reply from the Fire Service to confirm that your message has been received.

FOR THE HARD OF HEARING AND SPEECH IMPAIRED This SMS text service should be of extra benefit for those in the community who are deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired who previously may have had difficulty in communicating with the fire service. The Fire and Rescue Service recognises that SMS text messaging is popular amongst these groups and intends to exploit this facility in order to improve its contacts with them. An initial request for a fire safety check may therefore be augmented with additional help for those with specific needs. IMPORTANT! The HFSC text service specifically applies to the fire service home safety visits and should not be used to contact the fire and rescue service in times of emergency.

Staff Suggestion Scheme Needs You!

By Bev Davies, Community Fire Safety, Morriston & Nigel Williams, Head of ICT Department, HQ

Our staff have a wealth of talent and knowledge that can help the organisation improve the way it operates. Every member of staff is encouraged to submit their ideas for improvement through the service staff suggestion scheme. The scheme is committed to: • Pursuing continuous improvement • Giving staff the opportunity to put their ideas forward • Improving efficiency Do you have a bright idea? If yes you could be awarded up to £500!! Let us know how you think we can improve the Service through the staff suggestion scheme, further information can be obtained from the BIS, under the Corporate Communication and Member Support department pages. 09

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18/02/2010 11:13:48

As part of the Welsh Language Policy, MWWFRS have been supporting employees that want to learn Welsh by providing weekly classes at Carmarthen HQ. Employees are given the opportunity to learn as part of their working day, which for many of us is invaluable. The Service also provides the books and other learning materials required to take part in the course. The current group began learning at the end of 2007 and what an epic adventure it has been! We have lost members and gained others along the way and currently we stand at 11 members. The group is structured in such a way as to address a wide variety of Welsh speaking abilities. We have members who have never spoken or heard the Welsh language, some, like me who have attempted to learn several times, and others who are fluent Welsh speakers who want to improve their formal Welsh for work purposes or simply to improve their confidence. Whatever the reason, we are all there for the common purpose- to learn to speak Welsh. Our tutor Jayne Roberts is fantastic, how she manages to teach us all at such varied levels I don’t know - but she does!

The first class is always the worst, but once you get over the intrepidation of launching yourself into the vast chasm that is the Welsh language it’s plain sailing - honest! Classes are informal and quite relaxed. We mainly focus on verbal exercises but also have listening, reading and written exercises to compliment the course. We are a friendly bunch and try to keep it light hearted, we help and support each other- after all, we are all facing the same hurdles. Ultimately we get out as much as we put in and we can learn at our own pace. There are optional exams available at the end of each of the three course books. The exams are taken at Trinity College and are recognised qualifications which demonstrate your competence in using the Welsh Language. I am about to take my first exam, so watch this space! The classes are held on Monday afternoons 4pm – 5.30pm in the Community Room at Carmarthen Fire Station, everyone is welcome. If you would like further information about learning Welsh please contact the Corporate Communication & Member Support department on Ext:4465 or e-mail e.evans@mawwfire.gov.uk.

In a Class of their own By Suzi Morris, Carmarthen Command HQ

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Wise Up To Welsh By Jacqui Maunder, Head of Corporate Communication & Member Support

Welsh Language Awareness Seminar 1st March 2010 - To celebrate St David’s day on 1st March, the Service is holding a Welsh Language Awareness Session “Tan Y Draig - Dysgu Cymraeg” at Carmarthen HQ. The aims of the event are to: •

raise awareness of the Welsh learning opportunities available to employees and hear experiences from other Welsh learners.

•

raise awareness of bilingualism in the workplace and the communities we serve.

•

present our first ever Welsh Learner of the Year award.

Learning Welsh - whether you’re a complete novice or a fluent Welsh speaker wanting to improve your skills we have a course for you. Anyone interested in pursuing a Welsh language course should discuss it with their line manager, then notify the Corporate Communication & Member Support department of their interest. Welsh Language Scheme - It is a legal requirement, under the terms of the Welsh Language Act 1993, for public bodies in Wales to adopt and implement a Welsh Language Scheme. Our scheme sets out how MWWFRS will treat the Welsh and English languages equally when providing services for and communicating with the public. MWWFRS will be publishing their third Welsh Language scheme stemming 2010-2013 in the Spring. What do MWWFRS do to comply with the Welsh Language Scheme? • • • • • • • •

Publish bilingual documents; Maintain a bilingual corporate identity; Promote the use of Welsh in public meetings; Answer the phone bilingually; Correspond with the public bilingually; Encourage third-party organisations to provide services in Welsh; Deliver services bilingually, e.g. HFSC’s Mainstream the Welsh language into policies and services.

If you have any queries, in relation to the Welsh Language, needs to arrange a translation or having a training request please contact the Corporate Communication Department on Ext:4465. Mae Gen Ti Ddewis - The three Welsh Fire & Rescue Service’s are participating in the national “Mae Gen Ti Ddewis” campaign that is promoting Welsh language choice when accessing public Services. When you next phone, visit or write to an organisation look out for the language choice and where available choose Welsh. Let your friends and family know that they also have a choice. Join in the discussion and join the “Mae Gen Ti Ddewis” facebook group.

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Why Is Your Station Important? It is situated in a large industrial heavily populated town with various industrial and environmental risks.

What is the station’s claim to fame? Two former members of the station, Mark Perego and Jonathon Griffiths both played rugby for Wales.

Tell us about your most memorable incident? Castle Road, Llanelli. Four young girls were lucky to be alive following an explosion which occurred in a terraced house.

Local legends - What is your area famous for? Stradey Park, Millennium Costal Path, Imogen Thomas, Phil Bennett and beating New Zealand All Blacks 9 – 3.

What are the specific risks for the area you serve? Industry – Corus steel works, Calsonic car components, Prince Phillip Hospital, Large number of deprived areas, Six secondary schools, M4 Motorway.

Who is the “biggest joker” on the station? Craig Warren, ( noisiest ) – Huw Morris.

Are there any unusual hobbies amongst your crew members? Cycling, Kayaking, Vintage cars, Motorcycling, Nintendo DS, Hells Angels wannabe, Rat catching.

Who is the biggest “show off” amongst the crew members? John BACH Davies, he changes his car every time there is an R in the month. What does your station do better than any other – in 3- 5 words? Computer Skills, Sunday Lunch.

In Focus

Why is your station the “best” in the Service? There is a wide variety of skills required on the station. IRU, Moffat fork lift, Environmental Unit, Boat, Level 2 Line Rescue. This is backed up by the dedication, experience and hard work by the station staff.

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Llanelli 18/02/2010 11:13:54

Overview The Service is undertaking a Review Programme to ensure we are providing the appropriate level of service to the communities we serve. This work is being undertaken by a dedicated team and will be led by Area Manager Derek Masson supported by Group Manager Gethin Davies and Imran Rao.

Review This review will consider the developments and changes in our communities and ensure that we provide a service to meet these needs in a challenging economic climate. A timeframe of twelve months has been allocated to the programme and will be divided into two key phases:

Shaping Our Future By Gethin Davies, Group Manager, Operational Risk Management (ORM) department

Phase One To produce a range of short term improvements for consideration and inclusion within the 2011/12 Risk Reduction Plan.

Phase Two To conduct a detailed review of Service resources to establish a range of medium and long term options for service improvements.

Reporting Recommendations will be presented to Policy Board at regular intervals for strategic decisions and consideration for inclusion in the forthcoming RRP and budget setting process.

Staff Engagement To ensure all staff are are kept informed, updates will be provided at Service Delivery Forum and Service Improvement Board. All Senior Managers are asked to provide detailed feedback to staff at their normal Command/ Departmental meetings. Staff involvement will be an important part of the review and we would encourage all to provide suggestions to the Review team at any stage. A key element of the review will involve the team spending a week within each Command area, visiting stations, reviewing appliances to ensure they are appropriate based upon community risk and talking to staff providing an opportunity to discuss ideas of improving our service. Want to get Involved? - The Review Team would also welcome any volunteers who may wish to contribute more in seeking out national and international good practice or contributing in other ways to shape our future. For further information please contact Area Manager Derek Masson or Group Manager Gethin Davies.

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18/02/2010 11:13:56

Three Wise Men Hitchhike to Bethlehem By Wayne Price Station Manager

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“

their challenge was to make their way from Nazareth in North Wales to Bethlehem near Llandeilo.

hree Firefighters from Llandeilo volunteered to take part in a televised challenge for Seren Bethlehem, a Welsh language TV series for S4C. The program focused on the community of Llandeilo and in particular the villagers of Bethlehem who were involved in organising a Christmas show to be staged in Llangadog. The programme followed the organisers and the participants in their quest to arrange the event from start to finish. The programme was shown in the run up to Christmas with the final episode showing the actual event itself and was screened on Christmas Eve. The three firefighters from Llandeilo were recruited as the ‘three wise men’ and their challenge was to make their way from Nazareth in North Wales to Bethlehem near Llandeilo. This was done over a three day period from the 11th to the 13th December and involved walking, running, cycling, hitchhiking or any other means possible. The main proviso was that they were not allowed to pay for transport. The journey was made more difficult as they had to wear ridiculous fancy dress outfits making it more difficult to attract lifts. A big thank you is extended to Station Manager Justin Lewis for his co operation in allowing the Aberystwyth Fire appliance to aid their progress on the Saturday afternoon. The journey ended just before the start of the show on Sunday the 13th December where the three joined the cast of the show as the three wise men. The three Ff’s involved were CM Eirwyn Moses, FF Wyn Bunford and FF Emyr Bowyer. During the journey ‘the three wise men’ collected money from cars and passers by and made the odd detour into local shops and pubs in order to maximise their collections. The whole event raised a total of £14,000 with £2,000 being allocated to the Firefighters charity. Other local charities to benefit included The Welsh Air Ambulance, Ty Hafan Hospice and Coleg Elidyr. A big “Well done!” to the three wise men! 15

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LGBT History Month “Claiming our history, celebrating our present, and creating our future” By Jane Rose, Equality & Diversity Officer

Every February is national Lesbian, Gay Bisexual and Trans-gendered (LGBT) history month. It is the opportunity to celebrate what LGBT forbearers have achieved, to remember the dead, and damaged, with love and respect and maybe even anger and to learn more about LGBT people and their experiences of life. The Uk History Month is one of the achievements of Schools Out, the national organisation of LGBT people in Education.

Why do we need LGBT History Month? Because the lives and achievements of LGBT people have been hidden, it has been easy for others to stereotype and distort the reality of their lives. From this ignorance comes the prejudice that shows itself in homophobic bullying and negative discrimination. By presenting an honest appraisal of LGBT lives we seek to replace ignorance with knowledge and understanding. In June 2008 research was commissioned by Stonewall into Homophobic crime. Out of more than 1700 responses 20% had been the victims of crime over those past three years. Almost 9 in 10 had experienced Homophobic insults and harassment often forms neighbours and work colleagues.

MWWFRS Working with Stonewall Cymru MWWRS have recently joined Stonewall’s “Diversity Champions Cymru” programme. During 2010 we will be undertaking the Stonewall employer assessment process in order to be considered for a prestigious place in the top 100 employers index.

Want to Get Involved? We are having a task and finish group to help us with this process. If you would like to participate in the task and finish group please contact Jane Rose Equality and Diversity Officer Ext: 5539. The group is open to anyone who wishes to participate; please ensure that your manager is supportive of your attendance. LGBT Networking Group - We are launching the totally confidential LGBT networking group managed and lead by an LGBT employee. This group has full organisational support. The group is a closed group for people who identify as LGBT only. Contact information is as follows: a.king@mawwfire.gov.uk, lgbt@mawwfire.gov.uk. If you or someone you know would like further advice and guidance surf to: http://www.lgbthistorymonth.org.uk/calendar/EventsWales.php http://www.lgbthistorymonth.org.uk/index.htm www.fbulgbt.org.uk/ - Fire Brigades Union (FBU) LGBT group http://www.unison.org.uk/out - Unison LGBT Group www.ecwales.org.uk - The “LGBT Excellence Centre Wales” which provides advice and support about your rights in employment, education, relationships, accessing services, coming out and everyday life www.stonewall.org.uk - Campaigning for equality & justice for Lesbians, Gay Men and Bisexuals www.schools-out.org.uk - Working towards equality in education Or contact Jane Rose, Equality & Diversity Officer Ext:5539 or Jacqui Maunder, Trustee of the “LGBT Excellence Centre Wales” Ext:4460. 16 A0144-lar-E.indd 16

18/02/2010 11:14:02

HMP Swansea

SAFETY ON THE ‘INSIDE’

In a first for UK Fire Services, a joint initiative between Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service and HM Prison Service has seen fire service personnel engaging with male prisoners at HM Prison Swansea.

The Community Safety Team from Swansea County Command were invited by Andrea Whitfield, Governor of HMP Swansea, to participate in the prisons ‘Change and Give’ events week which took place last year.

HMP Swansea is a category B prison with approximately 420 prisoners. About 80% of the prisoners at Swansea actually reside within a 40 mile radius of the prison. A large percentage of the prisoners have been convicted of car crime offences. The aim of the initiative was to raise the prisoner’s awareness of fire safety in the home and road safety. Particular emphasis was given to the consequences of driving without seatbelts, driving at excessive speed and driving whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Prisoners and prison staff participated in interactive, educational workshops and team building exercises. Eight members of the Swansea Command Community Safety team attended Swansea Prison over a three day period. To fully engage the prisoners and prison staff they utilised the following Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service resources:

The Community Safety Awareness Unit A purpose built mobile educational unit which enables the delivery of a variety of media formats within a comfortable environment.

CSI (Crash Scene Incident) Swansea The prisoners also participated in the Swansea Command CSI (Crash Scene Incident) Swansea programme. This effective programme highlights the devastating consequences of a road traffic collision. Participants in the CSI Swansea programme are shown a number of hard-hitting videos highlighting the common causes of road traffic collision. This is followed by a visit to a vehicle which has been purposely crashed to reflect a typical 40 mph collision. The vehicle contains a typical family, represented by mannequins with simulated injuries. The injuries represent those likely to be sustained by the occupants of a vehicle involved in a real road traffic collision.

By Richie Evans

Standard Fire Appliance The fire appliance was utilised throughout the event for the team building exercises (hose running etc.) Three full days were spent at Swansea Prison and Fire Service personnel engaged with over 200 prisoners and prison staff. The prisoners fully engaged in all of the workshops and activities. The feedback received from the prisoners and prison staff was extremely positive, highlighting the beneficial impact of the initiative. Hopefully the prisoners who were involved in the initiative will remember what they learnt and will apply that knowledge in their community upon release from prison. The Governor of HMP Swansea said “The events week was named ‘Change and Give’. Its purpose was to raise awareness amongst prisoners of the consequences of their actions on themselves and on others. It was hoped that within the prison environment and also in the wider community after release they would have a greater understanding of how drink, drugs and acting without thinking can impact and create potential victims. The Fire Service created a learning environment for the prisoners which was interactive, enjoyable and clearly left a lasting impression. The lighter element of hose running taught those involved the importance of how to achieve as part of a team, and how to communicate in order to get the best result possible. These skills are essential in life beyond prisons. The event has built a lasting relationship between Swansea Prison and Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service which will continue with more events of this kind planned for the future. It will help to make the local community a safer place”. Following this very successful initiative, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service will continue to work closely with Swansea Prison to identify and engage with those prisoners that will benefit from such activities. 17

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Rescuing Mia was so moving and touching, especially handing her over to her mother who was outside the buildingâ&#x20AC;Ś. throughout the rescue I thought of my own family.

Return of the Magnificent 7 By Jim Cameron Corporate Head of Risk Management

On the 13th January 2010 a specialist search and rescue team from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service flew to the Caribbean island of Haiti to assist in the international effort to rescue survivors in the aftermath of an earthquake which measured 7.1 on the Richter scale and killed and injured hundreds of thousands of people. 18 A0144-lar-E.indd 18

18/02/2010 11:14:06

Seven of our local firefighters were deployed to the island as part of the UK International Search and Rescue Team (UKISAR) and their immediate responsibilities were to undertake search and rescue operations for persons trapped in the debris, these efforts continued until it was deemed that the window for survival closed. The MWWFRS team joined teams from eight other UK fire and rescue services including Greater Manchester, West Sussex, West Midlands, Lancashire, Lincolnshire, Hampshire and Kent; totaling 64 staff, two search dogs and 12 tonnes of equipment. Successes of the Mid and West Wales team working with other UK teams whilst in Haiti included the rescues of 2 year old girl named ‘Mia’ and a 39 year old female named Sonja. Firefighter David Fox, from Morriston Fire Station said: “Rescuing Mia was so moving and touching, especially handing her over to her mother who was outside the building…. throughout the rescue I thought of my own family.” But it was not all happy memories for the team who also had to deal with the grim reality of the earthquake, which has claimed over 200,000 lives. The team returned to Wales on 23rd January, and gave a moving account of their experiences at a press conference on the 27th January. Social Justice and Local Government Minister Carl Sargeant was in attendance and said: “I am proud to be here today to offer my thanks to the seven firefighters from Wales who played their part in the massive rescue effort in Haiti. Working in difficult and often dangerous conditions, they scoured debris for those trapped underneath and made safe damaged buildings.” Chief Fire Officer, Richard Smith said: “I am extremely proud of our team and the impact they have been able to make in the aftermath of this terrible earthquake. They are truly special people to be able to work in these types of situations”. MWWFRS involvement has received national attention and Firefighter Phil Irving from Pembroke Dock is now firm friends with Dame Helen Mirren following an appearance on the BBC’s “The One Show”; and following an appearance on ITV’s “This Morning” show Firefighter Gerwyn Howells from Haverfordwest Fire Station has invited Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby down to West Wales to sample Welsh hospitality! If you would like give a donation to the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) Haiti Earthquake Appeal please go to www. dec.org.uk for further information. Watch this space for news on how the MWWFRS team involved are raising money to help this worthwhile cause.

Secretary of State for International Development, Douglas Alexander commended our involvement by saying: “The people of Wales can be proud of the efforts of the search and rescue professionals from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service. “They are helping the people of Haiti at a time of dire need and their skills and experience are vital to the ongoing search for survivors in the rubble in Port-au-Prince.

The Magnificent seven: Gerwyn Howells, Charlie Taylor, Steve Ellery, Phil Irving, Paul Dyson, David Fox and Kevin Saunders

“I would like to thank them on behalf of the British government for their commitment and bravery as part of this international mission.” 19

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By Jacqui Maunder, Head of Corporate Communication & Member Support Fire Service Chaplains are unpaid volunteers who provide support to MWWFRS in addition to their day to day responsibilities. MWWFRS are fortunate to have 5 Chaplains serving our area, whereas some FRS’ are lucky to have one! What do Chaplains do? - There is a common misconception that the Chaplain is there to “ram religion down our throats”, however nothing could be further from the truth. The Chaplains are there because they believe that people matter irrespective of who they are, what they are or what their particular beliefs may be, whether they are Church members or not. The Chaplain is there for you! The role of the Chaplain is to: • • • •

Don’t be Afraid of your Local Chaplain they don’t

’bite!’

Attend incidents and offer support and guidance to firefighters and family members in the event of a fatality. Station visits – all Chaplain’s visit fire stations to get to know the staff. Counselling – the Chaplains are on hand to offer confidential listening and friendship to all firefighters and support staff at any time on any day. Pastoral services – the Chaplains are always available to visit Service Personnel who may be in hospital or in times of crisis at home, and can also be approached for advice in relation to weddings, baptisms and funerals.

If you would like further information about your local Chaplain and their contact details please access the Fire Service Chaplain leaflet on the BIS.

2010 Chaplains Training Day at Port Talbot Fire Station Every year a training day is held for our Chaplains to keep them up to date with the latest initiatives, training and equipment. This year’s event was hosted by Neath & Port Talbot Command at Port Talbot fire station. The training itinerary included: • • • •

An introduction to Human Behaviour in Fire by Gary Williams and Marc Williams, which featured real life fire investigation scenarios and tales of what our Firefighters are faced with when attending incidents involving fatalities. A Chip pan fire demonstration. Julian Austin from the Community Fire Safety department gave an interesting presentation and talk on HFSC’s and on the powerful marketing tools used to educate and discourage drink driving, speeding, dangers of smoking in the home and not wearing a seatbelt. Rural and Forestry team (RaFT) - demonstration of the 4x4s and off road motorcycles used by the team.

The Chaplains had a fantastic day and were grateful to all of the personnel who were involved in planning and organising the event. 20 A0144-lar-E.indd 20

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International Women’s Day (IWD) 8th March 2010 Every year, 8 March is celebrated around the world as International Women’s Day celebrating the economic, political and social achievements of women past, present and future. Go to http://www.internationalwomensday.com for further details on events near you. Ed:Treat that special woman in your life - don’t forget Mother’s Day is on the 14th March!!

Ladies Driving Challenge 2010 Girls get your heels on our wheels! Carrying on from the success of last year Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service will be hosting the 2010 ladies driving challenge on Sunday 19th April at Pembrey Race Circuit Carmarthenshire, in aid of the Firefighter Charity. The challenge is to drive a wide variety of weird and wonderful vehicles! Each Driving Challenge is unique and you can look forward to driving at least four or five different types of vehicle. You’ll be given expert tuition throughout, ensuring you enjoy this special day to the full. An exhilarating event is guaranteed for all! You can register your interest by visiting the charity website on www. firefighterscharity.org.uk. For further information please contact Nerys Evans or Craig Thomas on 0370 6060699.

Annual Carol Service Following a successful Carol Service at Brecon Cathedral on the 7th December 2010, a total of £ £577.70 was collected for the Penmaes Special School and the Firefighters’ Charity . A big thank you to everyone who contributed.

Keeping Your Heart Healthy By Corporate Health Group There’s lots you can do to keep your heart healthy - whatever your age. Taking enough exercise, eating a healthy diet along with being aware of dangers such as smoking, drinking, high blood pressure and stress. February is National Heart Month [26 February is Wear it Red Day] and to coincide with Salt Awareness Week [01 - 07 February] the Service has also been raising awareness on ‘Salt and Your Health’. Not only can a high salt diet lead to high blood pressure, but to osteoporosis, obesity, stomach cancer, kidney stones, and stroke.

Calon Tan is Listening…….

The Fire Service took part in the Beating Bowel Cancer’s BE LOUD BE CLEAR Campaign to raise awareness about bowel cancer.

Do you have a story or an article you would like to feature in future editions of “Calon Tan”? Would you be interested in being on the editorial board? Then let us know! Contact Lis Evans Ext 4465 e.evans@mawwfire.gov.uk Please also let us know if you have difficulties in getting copies of “Calon Tan” – it is your magazine and we want you to read it!

Dates for the Diary • • • • • •

13th February - Wales v Scotland 26th February - Wales v France 10th March - No Smoking Day 13th March - Ireland v Wales 14th March - Mother’s Day 20th March - Firefighters National Charity Car Wash, Wales v Italy

Risk Reduction Annual Action Plan 2011/2012 Following the Service’s five year plan that reports on our strategic objectives and outlines our vision for the Service in 2010-2015 a separate Annual Action Plan 2011/2012 will report our progress and focus on objectives for the 2011/2012 year. A consultation will take place for the Draft Annual Action plan for 2011/2012 will run for a 12 week period from beginning of May to August 2010 during this period staff, communities and other stakeholders will be encouraged to respond to the consultation.

By being LOUD about bowel cancer we hope to raise awareness to help people to stay CLEAR of it. Bowel cancer currently claims almost 50 lives every day and will affect 1 in 18 people during their lifetime, it is estimated that around 90% of cases could be treated successfully if caught early enough. By being more aware of the signs and symptoms and seeking medical advice quickly, the cancer can be caught at an earlier stage.

BE LOUD BE CLEAR week kicked off on Monday 25 – 31 January. People from all across the UK had fun in their LOUDEST and most outrageous clothes, whilst raising funds and awareness for Beating Bowel Cancer. Prevention really is better than cure. Prevention really is better than cure.

For more information on the above issues and keeping healthy, please visit the Health and Wellbeing Intranet Site on the BIS. 21

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18/02/2010 11:14:22

NEW YEAR, NEW PPE

By Chris Margetts, Head of Technical Services, Operational Risk Management

During the month of December over 1,160 of our operational personnel were sized for the new Pro Tek-Max PPE. This is a fantastic achievement and one which reflect the genuine interest in our new PPE. Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service has planned for some time to replace the fire fighting uniform for the whole of the Service. To ensure best value and a consistency across the region it was decided to undertake the purchase on an all Wales basis. The all Wales project team lead by Group Manager Chris Margetts and the manufacturer, Lion Apparel, have been working hard to ensure delivery of the new fire kit across Wales in the spring of 2010. Chris Margetts said “The sizing exercise has been a huge success and it’s been fantastic to receive all the positive comments about our new Pro Tek-Max PPE.” The Pro Tek-Max PPE provides protection from radiant and convective heat transfer and also from the risks of contamination from contaminants. Additionally, one of the most important features is comfort even in foul weather, as we attend a full variety of incidents. The work of the all Wales project team has not finished yet, sizing is ongoing in the other Welsh FRS, a training DVD is to be filmed, service level agreements are to be finalised and of course the delivery of over 7000 sets of PPE across Wales. As well as the Pro Tek-Max suit all operational personnel in our Service will be issued the new Rosenbauer Heros-Xtreme fire fighting helmet. The Rosenbauer helmet came top in the wearer evaluations conducted last July and provides our personnel with state of the art technology in fire helmet design.

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Currently our new helmets are in production in Rosenbauer’s factory in Austria. During February all operational personnel will be individually fitted with their new helmets by specialist staff from Rosenbauer. This is a very important stage in the project and again will require the cooperation of all staff. Area Manager Jim Cameron said “I’m delighted with the progress the Service has made in partnership with North Wales FRS, South Wales FRS and with Lion Apparel. The sizing has been a great success so far and we look forward to being able to individually fit all personnel with the new latest fire helmet technology. With the roll out of all the new PPE only months away Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service can look forward to the continued safety of their fire-fighters well into the 21st century. 18/02/2010 11:14:26

Firelink By Chris Margetts, Head of Technical Services, Operational Risk Management (ORM)

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service is currently undergoing the installation of a new digital radio communications equipment - Firelink. The new radio system which is being introduced to all three of the Welsh fire services this Spring, represents a major investment by the Welsh Assembly Government to enhance the FRS capability to deal with a wide range of incidents, including major emergencies such as the extensive flooding seen in recent years. The key features of the system will be;• A digital network with excellent communication properties. • Clearer radio voice quality. • Enhanced communication with other emergency services enabling us to work together better. • All appliances will have the ability to send status messages. • Will provide the most up-to-date Operational Intelligence on buildings and risks. Every Firelink radio has an Orange Emergency button which must not be confused with the on off switch. This will allow personnel in life threatening situations to communicate directly with control. There is a strict procedure for the use of the emergency button which all crews should familiarise themselves with. The roll out of the new system will be completed by the first week of April and we will continue to operate on voice transmission as we currently do. Once everyone is fully confident and familiar with the how the radio works the Service will move forward and make full use of all the technical features available. Should you require more information on the Firelink system please contact a member of the ICT or Training department.

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CHIEF IN BRIEF Welcome to the first edition of Calon Tan for 2010. You may notice that the format of our in-house magazine has changed somewhat. Don’t be too alarmed – we are just trying out a new style and approach to gauge opinion. It would be interesting to know what you think of it. The content of the magazine hopefully still reflects the diverse issues of interest that are going on in the Service and I hope that all colleagues can learn something from the information we provide. I would like to draw everyone’s attention to page 13 and the ‘Shaping Our Future’ article. If there has been one consistent theme to my thirty plus year career in the Fire Service, it is that those delivering our services on the ground always feel that there voice isn’t heard by

those decision makers when strategy is being devised. I would like to impress upon everyone that I am serious about engaging with staff, not only from a ‘top down’ updating process, but also from a ‘bottom up’ listening and influencing one. This really does afford an ideal opportunity for colleagues to become involved in how we shape up to deliver our service in the coming years. A lot of it is down to you, so I would encourage you to get involved wherever you can. Stay warm - Spring is just around the corner. Diolch yn fawr. Richard Smith

Anything to add? Can you help make our magazine better? • • • • •

Photography Articles Stories Opinions Anything

If you want to be a part of Calon Tân contact the Corporate Communications & Member Support Department on 01267 226866, ext 4466 or via email at calontan@mawwfire.gov.uk.

Drop us a line! 24 A0144-lar-E.indd 24

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