Ross-shire unsung wildfire heroes hailed
The specialist unit of wildfire firefighters from Balintore
ROSS-SHIRE bosses who gave employees time off to work as firefighters tackling the recent wild blazes which caused millions of pounds worth of damage, have been hailed as “unsung heroes”.
Numerous retained firefighters, who work full-time in other jobs, made up a large number of the 300 plus personnel who worked for 12 hours a day to put out wildfires at a number of locations which raged in the Highlands for nearly a week at the beginning of May.
A small band of retained firefighters from Balintore, who all have other professions, were able to use their specialised wildfire training to put out blazes in Torridon, Drumnadrochit and Lochinver, thanks to the cooperation from their employers.
Local fire officer, Antony Gardner, said, “Because of their specialised wildfire training and equipment, Balintore firefighters were tackling fires as far away as Drumnadrochit, Torridon and Lochinver, their members all have full-time jobs and it was through the support of their bosses that we were able to ensure that we could tackle such challenging and dangerous fires.
“We even have some employers who have supported us for over 20 years and we are extremely grateful.”
As the full cost of the recent spate of Highland wildfires comes to light, Highlands and Islands Fire and Rescue Service is also emphasising how grateful they are for the support of the local communities and employers in local businesses who allow their staff to leave their workplace and take on the role of retained firefighters.
The financial cost to the fire service is estimated at over £125,000 and up to £26million worth of vegetation and forestry was lost, but there is also an intangible cost to local businesses.
Hundreds of firefighters attended the incidents over the 10-day period, some of whom were away from their normal place of work for up to 12 hours and for a number of days at a time.
Commenting on the role played by local employers, Mr Gardner, said, “Whilst we are very grateful for the commitment and professionalism of our retained firefighters, it is very easy to overlook the support that we receive from the local business community in very difficult economical times.
“The fire service would not be able to carry out its role as effectively as it does, the employers are the unsung heroes and their ongoing support is greatly appreciated.”
