Fire

The Dorset Fire Authority

Doret Fire Authority (DFA) became responsible for Dorset Fire & Rescue Service (DFRS) on 1 April 1997 following Local Government Reorganisation. Under Statutory Instrument 1996 No.2920, The Dorset Fire Services (Combination Scheme) Order 1996, Dorset County Council, Bournemouth Borough Council and the Borough of Poole combined to form the Dorset Fire Authority. The Authority is responsible for the provision of fire and rescue services under the Fire and Rescue Services Act 2004.

The Authority consists of 15 Members appointed by the three constituent authorities. The proportion of Members is on the basis of the numbers of electors in each of the constituent areas.

Fire Authority Responsibilities

The Fire Authority's statutory core functions come from the Fire & Rescue Services Act 2004 which was enacted on 1 October. They are making provision for:

• Promoting fire safety in its area.
• Extinguishing fires and protecting life and property from fire.
• Dealing with road traffic accidents and the rescue of persons trapped.
• Dealing with other types of emergencies as designated by order from the Secretary of State

In meeting these core functions, the Fire Authority is responsible for ensuring that adequate arrangements are in place for:

• Dealing with calls for assistance.
• Providing a fire and rescue service and equipment.
• Training of personnel.
• Obtaining information for fire and rescue purposes.
• Minimising damage resulting from fire and rescue activity.
• Giving fire safety advice.

The Authority can use its equipment or personnel for any purpose it believes appropriate and whenever it chooses in the interest of its community.

The Secretary of State has by order given authorisation for the Authority to charge for providing some services. These are wide ranging and include as examples containment and clearance of spillages, people locked in or out of premises, removal of water, persons shut in lifts, provision of documents, photographs, tapes and other recordings.