AVON Fire & Rescue Service (AF&RS) is inviting residents to have their say on how much they would be prepared to pay to support its lifesaving services.

Any feedback given will be published within the AF&RS’ Service Plan 2024-2028, which will also outline local risks and how the Service plans to reduce these risks.

The survey can be accessed on the Avon Fire and Rescue Service's website. Those needing to access the survey in a different format should call 07977467634 or email Consultation@avonfire.gov.uk.

AF&RS chief fire officer, Simon Shilton, said: “As a Service, our main aim is to make our communities safer and we do that by preventing fires through education, protecting you in your homes and your places of work, and by responding to fires.

“The Service that we provide to you matters to us and that’s why it’s important you have the opportunity to have your say on the areas that you would like us to focus on the most and what service provision you would expect from us.

“We will be carrying out the work in our Service Plan against a backdrop of financial pressures and an increasing demand for public services and providing the support people need from their fire and rescue service will become increasingly challenging. 

“I know that times are tough for everyone, and the cost of living is impacting us all, and that is why we are also asking residents what they would be prepared to pay towards their fire and rescue service.”

Chair of Avon Fire Authority, councillor Brenda Massey, added: “The Authority’s role is to address the challenges facing Avon Fire & Rescue Service, with the resources available, ensuring an effective and efficient service that meets public expectation.

“As an Authority, we oversee the fire service and represent the views of our local communities covering Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset, South Gloucestershire and North Somerset.

“We can only do this by listening to and hearing from our local communities, and I would encourage you to find out more about the Service’s priorities for tackling risk across the area and keeping our communities safer and share your views.”

Residents have until February 14, 2024 to make their views heard.