An exceptional day for the Service
Storm Eunice Update
Essex County Fire and Rescue Service has said yesterday was an ‘exceptional day’ for the Service.
Between 10am and 9pm, the control room and crews dealt with around 500 calls, with up to 100 calls an hour during the peak of Storm Eunice.
Area Manager Neil Fenwick said: “It was an exceptional day for our Service. On an average day we receive between 40 and 50 calls - yesterday we dealt with around 500. We were well prepared and our teams did an excellent job to keep our residents safe. I would like to say a huge thank you to all our firefighters and staff, our emergency service, local authority and utility company partners as well as the people of Essex, who listened to our advice and messages. It was a real team effort and shows once again how Essex unites when faced with challenges.”
Crews and control room staff dealt with a wide range of incidents including collapsed and damaged buildings, large fallen trees, damage to power cables and small fires.
Neil added: “We were well prepared. We had our resources and specialist equipment in the right place and our teams were ready to respond. We believe that the worst is over but we are expecting more inclement weather over the weekend. Because of this we are urging residents to still be cautious, be aware of fallen debris and loose trees and branches and don’t try to access footpaths or roads that have been closed off. Also continue to follow our bad weather safety advice. However be assured that we have plans in place if the weather forecast changes and will be there to keep you safe.”
Advice to follow:
- Download the what3words app to help you find, share and save your precise location if you need help from the emergency services while you're out. https://orlo.uk/XFhW7
- Remember, only call 999 if there is a risk to life.
- Ensure your property and garden furniture is well secured
- If you find a fallen tree or other debris blocking the road report it at https://www.essexhighways.org/tell-us/report-all-issues
- Check your car regularly to make sure it’s safe to drive - this includes tyres, oil levels and water
- Always prepare for your journey by checking weather updates and road closures before leaving
- Never drive while under the influence of drink or drugs or while using a mobile phone
- Always wear a seatbelt
- Take it slower on the roads in wet, windy and icy weather and leave a larger braking distance between cars
- Never drive into flood water
