Melton firefighters praised after dealing with more than 80 incidents in a month
Melton Mowbray’s on-call firefighters have been praised for their dedication and community service during an ‘exceptionally busy’ July.
Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service say these Melton crews were deployed to more than 80 emergencies across the area just last month.
As well as fire-related incidents the firefighters dealt with a wide range of call-outs, including road collisions, rescues, hazardous materials reports and supporting other stations in neighbouring towns.
In a Facebook post, the local fire brigade posted: “July has been an exceptionally busy month for our dedicated on-call crew, who responded to more than 80 emergency incidents while balancing their commitment with full-time jobs, family life, and everyday responsibilities.
"Being an on-call firefighter means responding from home or work at a moment’s notice, 24 hours a day when available.
"It takes an incredible level of commitment, professionalism, and selflessness to answer that pager, often leaving family meals, celebrations, hobbies, or a good night’s sleep behind to help someone in need.
"Behind every on-call firefighter is a supportive family, employer, and friends who also make sacrifices.
"Their understanding and encouragement make it possible for our crews to continue protecting the communities they serve.”
Among the 35-fire related incidents Melton’s crews responded to was a large compost blaze last weekend in a field near Grimston, which saw smoke blowing into Melton for several days afterwards.
Another incident involved dealing with a vehicle which caught on fire on a stretch of the Pork Pie Way, leading to a section of it being closed for a period.
The call-out sheet for July for Melton crews included 35 fire-related incidents, 15 automatic fire alarms, 13 standby moves providing strategic fire cover while other major incidents were taking place across the county, four road traffic collisions, six incidents assisting other emergency services and partner agencies, two hazardous materials incidents and four rescue incidents.
The county fire service added in their post: “A huge thank you to every member of the Melton on-call team for your dedication throughout July, and to your families and employers for the support you provide.
"We are incredibly proud of what you do and grateful for everything you contribute in support of our wholetime colleagues and the wider service.
"Thank you for being there when your community needs you most.”