In the event of a marauding terrorist attack (MTA) every second counts and London Fire Brigade want to ensure firefighters can respond and provide immediate assistance as soon as they arrive at the scene.
On Wednesday the Commissioner signed a Joint Collective Agreement with the Fire Brigades Union in relation to marauding terrorist attacks (MTA), which will allow the Brigade to move forward with this project.
London Fire Commissioner Andy Roe, said: “Our agreement with the Fire Brigades Union strengthens the Brigade’s response to terror attacks and ensures that our firefighters will be better able to help people when they attend the scene, providing immediate assistance.
"We are now rolling out new training and personal protection equipment for our firefighters, alongside our wider investment in changing to better serve London.”
Over the last few months, the Brigade has been developing proposals to make sure firefighters are trained and equipped with the correct PPE for an MTA.
Having this agreement in place will significantly improve the Brigade’s response to an act of terrorism by ensuring all firefighters are equipped to deliver a search and rescue response including Immediate Emergency care to those that have been injured.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Matt Twist – Senior National Coordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing Protect and Prepare said:
“This agreement is excellent news, and is another powerful sign of our emergency services commitment to enhancing our collective response to the terrorist threat in the UK.
“Investment in training and resources for our first responders is absolutely essential if we are to provide the best possible service and to keep the public safe.
“As the terrorist threat evolves, it is vital that the emergency services do too; so we can respond effectively and protect our communities from harm. Today’s agreement is a welcome and tangible step in this evolution.”