Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service has been praised for it performance during the pandemic following a government inspection.

The service was recognised by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS) for adapting quickly and providing support to both Cornwall Council and the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust throughout the pandemic, in turn helping some of the county’s most vulnerable residents.

Inspectors said: “CFRS adapted well and continued to provide its core statutory functions during the first phase of the pandemic. This meant the service supported the people of Cornwall well during the pandemic and helped limit the spread of the virus. It took a lead role in providing and distributing personal protective equipment (PPE) to care homes and NHS sites, and its on-call firefighters drove ambulances.

“The service's Tri-Service Safety Officers and Community Safety specialists supported Cornwall Council's work with people who were shielding.

“Notably, the service introduced extra measures to support its staff. It provided additional wellbeing support, particularly for those who were at higher risk of COVID-19.”

CFRS Chief Fire Officer Mark Hewitt said: “We are very pleased with the inspection findings and proud that our staff have been recognised for the part they have played in responding to this national Covid pandemic.

“Our teams go above and beyond every day serving the residents, visitors and businesses of Cornwall. I give my thanks to all of our staff and particular mention to our Phoenix team who were instrumental in collecting and distributing PPE during the first phase of the pandemic, and our on-call firefighters who have supported our ambulance colleagues by providing blue light trained drivers.”

CFRS on-call firefighters continue to support South Western Ambulance Service Foundation Trust. From April 2020 to January 2021, they responded to 1,770 medical incidents.

As a service of Cornwall Council, CFRS staff have worked alongside Council colleagues in several areas including Covid fire safety business compliance, enforcement, preparation of discharge lounges.

Cllr Rob Nolan, Portfolio Holder Environment and Public Protection at Cornwall Council, said: “Our firefighters and all of the staff at CFRS have gone above and beyond to support communities across Cornwall.

“This report highlights how valuable they have been throughout the pandemic and how quickly they adapted. Their actions potentially saved lives.

“We are immensely proud of our fire service and grateful for their continued support.”

You can read the full inspection report here.