Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service says it’s dealing with an increase in false alarm calls.
On average, it’s responding to 16 false alarm calls every day, due to automatic alarms going off accidentally or intentionally.
In the last five years, the brigade has been alerted to more than 55,000 automatic fire alarms, out of which just 42 needed the use of a hose reel jet from a fire engine.
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service say the increase in false calls is placing an unnecessary burden on resources and their ability to be ready and available when genuine emergencies arise and are investigating ways to reduce the number of false call outs.
Chief Fire Officer, Gavin Ellis, says any changes made will relate only to automatic alerts, not to reports of fire and wants to re-assure people they will always attend when someone reports a sign of fire, including to houses, or where there is a known night-time sleeping risk.
To take part in a survey on how the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service should respond to false alarms, go to their website at:
www.dsfire.gov.uk
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