LICHFIELD'S MP has paid tribute to firefighters during a statement in Parliament – and called on the Government to ensure their expertise is placed at the heart of planning for changing climate.
Highlighting the scale of the challenge faced by local crews, Dave Robertson noted that Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service responded to more than 600 outdoor fires in July alone, in addition to further incidents throughout August.
Speaking in the House of Commons, he praised the courage and dedication of firefighters who spent weeks tackling blazes across the county.
The MP also drew attention to the contribution of retained firefighters, many of whom balance frontline emergency response with full-time jobs.
Calling them "absolute heroes", the Labour MP urged Ministers to ensure firefighters are properly supported and that their experience helps shape the nation's response to a changing climate.
Mr Robertson said:
"It is important that we recognise the bravery of those firefighters who were out there day in, day out.
"Every human instinct tells us to run the other way, but those men and women went out there day after day, ran towards danger, and kept our communities safe. I thank them.
"Our retained firefighters, many of whom finished long shifts fighting wildfires before going to their day jobs, are absolute heroes. Their voices must be at the heart of how we prepare for the challenges of a changing climate."
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