FUW helps protect farmers from fire risks

The Farmers' Union of Wales has joined forces with the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service in a bid to reduce the risk of fire in the rural communities of the region.

During 2007 a total of 36 fires occurred in farm buildings and there were 37 fires involving tractors and combine harvesters in Mid and West Wales during the same period.

Often the threat of fire and its effects can be worse in rural communities due to remote locations and distances from fire stations. However, this risk can be minimised through preventative action which is why the service has forged new links with the FUW to spread this important message to its members.

The service is offering free home fire safety checks to anyone wishing to protect themselves and their family from fire. Firefighters are also able to provide advice on how to reduce the risk of fire and can, free of charge, check, replace, and install smoke detectors.

This could lead to a reduction in home insurance premiums for rural communities

FUW Carmarthenshire County Executive Officer Meinir Bartlett said: "A vast number of our members live in remote locations so we are pleased to be involved with the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service in promoting the importance of fire prevention.

"We urge members to take up the offer of a free home fire safety advice check with the installation of a smoke detector.

"The remoteness of farmsteads from fire stations increases the length of time it takes for the emergency services to reach them which could have an impact on the severity of incidents."

Byron Jones, of the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, said: "We would also ask farmers to consider their neighbours, especially if they are elderly or considered vulnerable.

"Please inform them of this free service. Calls are free on 0800 169 1234 or book online at Alternatively, you can contact your FUW County Office."

NOTE TO EDITORS: Caption for the accompanying image is: From left - Byron Jones, Meinir Bartlett and FUW Vice President Brian Walters with a free smoke alarm.

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