Your monthly newsletter from West Midlands Fire Service
Hi there!
Welcome to the February newsletter from West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS).
Welcome to the latest edition of our newsletter. This month, we’re talking about how to dispose of batteries safely, Valentine’s Day, upcoming religious days and a right royal date for one of our firefighters!
If you have any feedback on our newsletters, or there's anything you'd like to see more of, just give us feedback or reply using the buttons at the bottom of the email!
Make it a safe month
WMFS
Please dispose of batteries safely
What do you do with your old batteries? In the space of just one week, around 200 of our firefighters responded to fires at scrap metal yards, breakers, and recycling sites. It’s suspected that improperly discarded batteries played a role in these incidents.
The solution is simple – please dispose of your batteries responsibly. They can ignite fires in refuse trucks, recycling plants or landfill sites. How to dispose of batteries safely:
✔️ take them to a designated battery recycling location – supermarkets often have them ✔️ check with your local council for local disposal arrangements ✔️ visit the Recycle your Electricals website for info on recycling a range of items – including vapes.
Let’s work together to keep our communities and firefighters safe!
Electrical Fire Safety Week: 3-7 February
It’s Electrical Fire Safety Week, so we’re sharing simple steps to prevent electrical fires at home or work.
Top tip: register your appliances! Whether they’re new or second hand, registering your devices - from washing machines to games consoles - can mean you get extended warranties and important safety alerts.
It all helps to stop fires happening in the first place. Visit our website registration page to find out how to register – it's quick, simple and free!
Looking to set the mood on 14 February? Remember - a romantic evening is best enjoyed without an unexpected visit from the fire service!
Always keep candles in sight, and put them out properly before you leave a room or go to bed. LED candles are much safer!
If you’re dishing up dinner for the love of your life, please keep safety on the menu. Our firefighters respond to many incidents caused by unattended pans and dishes left in ovens.
✔️ stay in the kitchen when cooking ✔️ don’t get distracted - keep track of cooking times ✔️ ensure kids are supervised ✔️ keep loose clothing away from open flames or hot surfaces.
King to honour West Mids firefighter with new Humanitarian Medal
We’re incredibly proud of Watch Commander Shammi Rana, who will receive the new Humanitarian Medal later this month for his work with UK International Search and Rescue (UK ISAR).
Shammi will be recognised for his dedication to disaster response, particularly following a devastating earthquake in Morocco 18 months ago.
As Ramadan begins, and as Shrove Tuesday and the start of Lent approach, our best wishes to all observing these important times of reflection, prayer, and community.
Whether your preparing Suhoor, Iftar, or pancakes, please stay fire safe - never leave cooking unattended, keep flammable items away from heat and, if a pan catches fire, turn off the heat. Never use water on a cooking fire involving oil.
