Proposed law seeks to strengthen coordinated emergency response to fire outbreaks

A new Bill before the National Assembly seeks to improve emergency response to fire outbreaks by enhancing coordination among fire services, police, and medical emergency teams.

The Fire and Rescue Services Professionals Bill, 2024, aims to professionalise the fire brigade sector and ensure better disaster management across the country.

The Bill proposes the establishment of the Institute of Fire Brigade Professionals (IFBP), a body that will be tasked with overseeing the training, certification and continuous professional development of fire personnel.

It also seeks to set strict ethical and operational standards for firefighters to improve efficiency and accountability.

According to the proposed legislation, IFBP will enforce a code of conduct to ensure high ethical standards among fire brigade personnel.

This will be complemented by a requirement for continuous training and skills development.

Structured recruitment

The Bill also introduces a structured recruitment process, ensuring that only qualified individuals serve in fire and rescue services.

One of the key provisions in the Bill is the integration of fire services with other emergency response agencies.

This means fire services will work closely with police and medical emergency teams to enhance coordination in handling disasters.

Police officers will be responsible for securing fire scenes, managing evacuations and investigating fire incidents while medical personnel will provide immediate care, trauma management and coordinate emergency evacuations.

Speaker Moses Wetang'ula has informed the House that the Bill, which was passed by the Senate last year, is among the key legislative priorities.

National board

Should it become law, a national board will be established to oversee the implementation of fire service training, certification and licensing.

The board will ensure that fire professionals meet specific qualifications and standards before recruitment.

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The proposed law also aims to modernise firefighting techniques by encouraging the use of advanced equipment and technology.

It emphasises the need for continuous investment in fire service infrastructure to ensure firefighters are well-equipped to handle emergencies efficiently.

By improving training standards, fostering inter-agency cooperation, and enforcing accountability, the Bill seeks to build a highly skilled and well-coordinated emergency response workforce that can effectively manage fire disasters and other emergencies.