Protecting the environment

This document formalises local working arrangements to control pollution when responding to an incident.

The 'Local Working Arrangements' document sets out the roles and responsibilities of each organisation. It describes:

- When and how the Environment Agency will be called to attend incidents;

- How the Environment Agency and East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service staff will liaise in an incident that could have an impact on the environment;

- How the organisations will respond to incidents that require the use of decontamination equipment;

- How fire service personnel will use environmental protection equipment.

The Environment Agency provides East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service with equipment to minimise the impact of pollution during incidents. Every fire appliance carries a pollution 'Grab Pack' containing drain seals, water filled booms that create a seal across a road to contain any pollutant and oil absorbent materials. Specialist equipment will also be provided where needed, including pumps, tanks, containers and larger booms for use on watercourses. The equipment is vital to enable the trained crews to stop and prevent chemicals, petroleum products and other hazardous material from entering watercourses and damaging the environment.

Speaking about the protocol, Brian Dudman, Emergency Planning Officer, East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service said: "Our relationship with the Environment Agency is pivotal in the discharge of our statutory duties under the Fire Services Act. Our aim is to continue to extend our professional relationship with the Environment Agency."

Kent & East Sussex Area Manager for the Environment Agency, Andrew Pearce, said: "We have a very good relationship with East Sussex Fire & Rescue service and this protocol reinforces the excellent work we are already doing. Fire and other incidents can often create environmental hazards. As the first responder to these incidents, East Sussex Fire & Rescue's timely use of pollution prevention measures is vital to help protect rivers and groundwater resources".