Firefighters to Get Body Cameras Amid Rising Attacks
Firefighters across the UK are set to strap on body cameras from May 1, 2023, after a sharp rise in assaults against them. The move aims to protect frontline crews and gather vital evidence following attacks.
Alarming Surge in Attacks on Firefighters
The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) revealed a 5% increase in assaults on firefighters in the year leading to April 2022, with 983 attacks recorded nationwide.
- 60 incidents caused injuries, some severe enough to require hospital stays.
- Verbal abuse made up more than half (55%) of assaults.
- Objects thrown at firefighters and equipment accounted for 28%.
- Physical abuse and harassment represented 6% and 2%, respectively.
- Other violent acts made up the remaining 9%.
Calls for Tougher Penalties & High-Tech Protection
The NFCC is pushing for harsher punishments against offenders, condemning attacks on firefighers as “heinous” and stressing they deserve respect and dignity.
David Diggins, Group Manager at Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service, said:
“The benefits that body worn video camera footage will bring to the Service can really transform how we do things.”
“Enabling our crews to continuously improve through debriefing and learning will improve the effectiveness of our service delivery to our communities.”
“We also believe that our communities will support these measures as an effective means of protecting our firefighters while they are attempting to protect themselves, their homes, and their businesses.”
Clear, Responsible Use of Video Tech
The cameras will capture both video and audio, but usage will follow strict Home Office guidelines. Crews will announce when recording, ensuring transparency. All footage will be securely managed under General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) rules.
This latest initiative shows fire services are getting serious about safeguarding their teams, while sharpening their response through real-world insights from recorded incidents.
