Growth areas are labour-intensive but generally shorter-duration incidents (assists, entry/exit, lifts). This suits flexible crewing and on-call productivity models, provided turnout and daytime availability can be improved at on-call stations. Workforce planning to be enhanced and data driven, linking into annual assessment of incident data, risks assessment, and training needs.
Prioritise refreshers in safe forced entry, casualty handling, water awareness/technician levels, lift/entrapment procedures, and mental-health informed approaches at scene.
Maintain/upgrade small tools for entry, water rescue Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and pumps, and capability for frequent low-complexity assists; keep a focus on PDA tuning for reduced fire load but higher non-fire call frequency. Review fleet and equipment plans, to ensure they meet current and emerging areas of risk and demand and enables more flexible/agile responding. Link into annual assessment of incident data, risks assessment, equipment, and training needs.
The rise in assist other agencies, suicide attempts, and good-intent alarms makes joint protocols with police, ambulance, housing, adult social care, and mental-health services pivotal to reduce avoidable mobilisations and improve outcomes.