Cynon AM Visits Local Fire Station to Discuss Grass fires

Local Assembly Member Vikki Howells recently visited Aberdare Fire Station to discuss the action being taken to combat the increase in deliberate grass fires within the Cynon Valley.

The AM for Cynon Valley met with local fire fighters  Nigel Williams and Craig Hope. Nigel has worked for the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service for almost 30 years and Craig Hope has been internationally recognised for his expertise regarding wild/grass fires. Craig has developed procedures and training methods to deal with these that have been imitated by Fire and Rescue services throughout the country.

Welsh Government Minister Rebecca Evans AM had stated that the increase in the amount of grass fires in the Cynon Valley area is “still a serious issue to address” after the issue was raised by Vikki Howells AM in the Senedd.

Vikki Howells AM said :-

“The visit highlighted the tremendous work being done by the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service to reduce deliberate grass fires and their involvement with the community throughout the Cynon Valley.

“Upon discovering that there had been 98 deliberate grass fires between the 23^rd February and 23^rd April within the constituency, it was apparent that there was an issue that needed to be addressed.

“After discussing the problem with the local Fire and Rescue Service, it’s clear to me that lots is being done to prevent, manage and control grass fires in the area. Implementation of the ‘wildfire toolbox’ and taking a year round approach to a seasonal problem, will help focus on the prevention, education and response against grass fires.”

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service will be holding an open evening at Aberdare Fire Station on the 2^nd July to further educate the local community on the dangers of wildfires. For more information on upcoming events and information concerning wildfires, follow Craig Hope on twitter @wildfire_craig.