Billingshurst Fire Station: Charity Car Wash raises over £1000

Billingshurst Fire Station Charity Car Wash

On 24th March we held our annual charity car wash at the Fire Station in aid of the Firefighters Charity, the amazing organisation that looks after and offers support to Firefighters and their loved ones during times of hardship.

With the combined hard work of the crew and the incredible generosity of the public, over £1000 was raised which will go a long way to helping those in need. We can’t thank you all enough for your kindness and support. We will be holding similar events in the future – please be on the lookout for dates!

As we begin to slowly emerge from the pandemic and restrictions are lifted, we would like to take this time to remind everyone about the free Safe and Well Service that we offer. We are particularly interested in identifying and helping members in our community who may be vulnerable and would benefit from fire safety advice. If you think you or someone you know would like a visit from us, please e-mail safeandwell@westsussex.gov.uk.

Additionally, we are currently reviewing the possibility of future recruitment plans, so if you are interested in the role of a Retained Firefighter please do get in touch. It is a requirement to live or work (we require employer’s consent if responding from work) within four minutes of the Fire Station. If you meet these criteria and would like to have a chat with us about what it takes to become a Retained Firefighter, please e-mail FRSJOBS@westsussex.gov.uk who can register your details and put you in contact with us. We are particularly interested in those who can provide daytime cover during the weekdays. Lastly, as the weather starts to improve, we would like to remind everyone on the dangers of disposable barbecues. As a station we have responded to several fires already this year that have been caused by the incorrect disposable of barbecue ashes. These fires have involved bins, bushes and grassland and start when the disposed ashes haven’t had enough time to cool down. To ensure the barbecue is disposed of safely, allow enough time for it to cool down before adding water. Twitter: @Station49Fire Facebook: Billingshurst Fire Station Andy Buddle, Billingshurst Fire Station

Photos: You bring ’em, we wash ’em!

Noise Anxiety

Loud bangs like thunder, gunfire, fireworks can cause pets real stress. Sometimes the stress is severe and can lead to your pet running off. Here’s a few tips:• Start a desensitisation programme with your dog – the Dogs Trust have one called ‘Sounds Scary’. It’s free, has instructions with sounds to download. Not a quick fix, but it can work. • To keep your dog safe on a walk pop a long line on them, (a long lead that trails behind them). If they show signs of stress quickly put your foot on the lead, distract them and if necessary choose a different route to go back to the car. Always end a walk on a positive note. Most importantly try not to show your dog that you’re stressed and don’t interact with them when they are. • Check your contact details are up-to-date with your microchip provider. Check your surname, phone number and postcode are on your dog’s tag. If your dog does run off the finder will be able to contact you. • If your pet is still struggling then contact your vet or a behaviourist for further help. Sophie Hall B.V.Sc., M.R.C.V.S.