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Environmental
Climate change represents one of the most significant challenges for Humberside Fire and Rescue Service (HFRS) in the coming decades.
Rising temperatures will lead to longer and more intense wildfire seasons, while increased rainfall and coastal erosion will heighten flood risks. Heatwaves will place additional strain on emergency services, requiring enhanced medical co-response and resilience measures. These changes, identified in the Chronic Risks Analysis and National Risk Register, demand a fundamental shift in how we plan and deliver services. Our estate strategy will prioritise energy efficiency, water conservation, and green infrastructure, while our fleet will transition to electric or hydrogen-powered vehicles to meet net-zero targets. We will collaborate with landowners, councils, and environmental agencies to reduce wildfire risk and develop flood response capabilities. Climate adaptation will be embedded in our CRMP, ensuring that community risk assessments reflect evolving environmental hazards and that tactical plans include measures for disaster risk reduction.
Risks:
Increased flooding and coastal erosion may damage infrastructure and disrupt response times. Higher wildfire risk due to prolonged dry seasons may require specialised equipment and training. Rising costs for climate adaptation measures may strain budgets and divert resources from other priorities.
Opportunities:
AI-driven flood forecasting and wildfire prediction may enable proactive deployment of resources and reduce incident severity. Transitioning to a net-zero fleet and green station infrastructure may reduce environmental impact and operating costs. Collaboration with landowners and councils for natural flood management may strengthen community resilience.
CRMP Link:
Our CRMP will incorporate climate risk modelling to ensure that prevention, protection, and response strategies address the growing impact of extreme weather events. Flooding, wildfires, and heatwaves will be factored into community risk assessments, enabling targeted interventions and resource planning. This approach will ensure that our operational capability aligns with environmental challenges and supports long-term resilience. Environmental risk assessments will continue to inform tactical planning for disaster risk reduction and resilience.