Essex County Fire and Rescue Service (ECFRS)

The ECFRS is one of the largest fire and rescue services in the country, serving the county of Essex which has a wide variety of risks, covering an area of 1,400 square miles and a population of 1.8 million. They provide prevention, protection and emergency response services from 50 fire stations across Essex.

We are honoured to have the Essex County Fire and Rescue Service joining us at the Festival, with members from the Rural and Farm Fire Safety Team and the Dog Unit. 

ECFRS Rural and Farm Fire Safety Team

The Essex County Fire and Rescue Service Rural and Farm Fire Safety Team is dedicated to enhancing fire safety and prevention measures in rural areas and agricultural settings. This specialised team works closely with farmers, landowners, and rural communities to promote safe practices and minimise the risk of fire incidents.

Fires in rural areas can spread rapidly due to dry vegetation, open spaces, and the presence of agricultural materials. The Rural and Farm Fire Safety Team addresses these unique challenges by providing specialised knowledge and resources tailored to the needs of rural communities. 

Visit the Team and their Tractor to find out more about they support our rural communities.

 

ECFRS Dog Unit 

The Essex County Fire and Rescue Service Dog Unit represents a unique and essential asset to emergency services in the region. Through their specialised skills and strong community ties, these dogs and their handlers enhance public safety, support investigations, and engage with the community in meaningful ways. As the demands on emergency services evolve, the Dog Unit will continue to adapt and play a crucial role in the safety and security of Essex County.

Key Functions of the Dog Unit

• Search and Rescue: The primary role of the Dog Unit is to assist in search and rescue operations. Trained dogs can quickly locate missing persons in various environments, including urban areas, forests, and disaster sites.
• Fire Investigation: The unit's dogs are trained to detect accelerants at fire scenes, helping investigators determine the cause of fires, especially in suspicious cases.
• Crowd Control and Public Safety: In large public events or emergencies, dogs can help maintain crowd control and ensure the safety of attendees, serving as a visible deterrent to potential unrest.

Visit the Team and meet these amazing animals.