Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) has been recognized as one of the country’s top-performing fire services, earning ‘outstanding’ ratings in a recent inspection by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS). The report, published on August 14, praised KFRS for its effectiveness, efficiency, and how it looks after its people.
KFRS was rated ‘outstanding’ for protecting the public through fire regulation, a distinction few other services have achieved. Inspectors noted the service’s high standard of fire safety audits and its effective enforcement against non-compliant businesses.
The report also highlighted other areas of excellence, including:
- Understanding Risks: The service was commended for using innovative technology, such as 3D cameras, to create models of high-risk premises, enhancing firefighter safety and awareness.
- Future Affordability: KFRS was recognized for its sound financial planning and for providing “good use of public money.”
The inspection also rated the service as ‘good’ in other areas, such as responding to major and multi-agency incidents and fostering a positive working culture.
While the report was overwhelmingly positive, it did identify some areas for improvement. HMICFRS suggested that KFRS needs to increase the availability of its on-call fire engines during the daytime and improve its quality assurance of prevention activities. KFRS leadership acknowledged these points, with Chief Executive Ann Millington stating that the service is committed to continuous improvement to meet the “ever-changing needs of the people we serve.”