Landmark Memorandum of Understanding to share research and data between AFAC and CFOA  

On Monday 1 March 2017 a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between two national institutions - the Australian and New Zealand National Council and the Chief Fire Officers Association. The MoU outlines arrangements for reciprocal sharing of research and data during 2017-22 and facilitates an ongoing partnership of knowledge sharing into the future. 

The MoU represents the first step in an unprecedented level of exchange between the two countries. “The positive discussions we have had with CFOA bode well for future progress on a range of initiatives across a broad spectrum of issues impacting on fire and emergency services agencies” said Mr Stuart Ellis, CEO AFAC.

Anticipated benefits include the improved use of existing resources, greater access to international fire research and data, and development of new data and best practices that would not otherwise have occurred.

Mr Neil Odin, Deputy Chief Officer of the Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service said on behalf of the CFOA, “this is another important step in helping to reduce the risk from fire in all our communities, with research leading the way in evidence-based decision making."

The agreement initiates closer collaboration, working towards the joint aim of safer firefighters and safer communities. At the heart of the MoU is a shared belief in the importance of gathering and leveraging data to promote more effective and efficient public services.

AFAC is the Australian and New Zealand National Council for fire, emergency services and land management, creating synergies across the emergency management sector. AFAC represents over 288,000 staff (including volunteers) who operate in the mitigation and response phases of emergency management and also support transition to recovery.

The CFOA’s Integrated Data and Research Programme brings together fire and rescue services from across the U.K. to understand and utilise their own and others’ fire data to improve fire outcomes for communities.

APACE guidance released

New guidance has been issued by  Apace (The Association of Policing & Crime Chief Executives) following the Policing and Crime Act 2017, which enables Police and Crime Commissioners to take on governance of their local fire and rescue services. 

The document describes the process a PCC is required to follow by the Act and the areas a PCC may wish to consider when developing and consulting on a business case.

The full document can be downloaded and it will be regularly reviewed and updated.  

Beyond Blue Lights

Following on from the success of last year’s programme ‘Beyond Blue Lights’ the new films have now been launched.