Tackling flooding and climate change emergencies are among mayor's priorities

Protecting the public from disasters such as floods and climate change related emergencies are among six priorities announced by the Mayor of York and North Yorkshire.

David Skaith today unveils his four-year Fire and Rescue Plan. He said that “keeping York and North Yorkshire safe is my top priority”.

The plan was drawn up after more than 1,600 people, businesses and organisations told the Major what they believed his priorities should be.

Mr Skaith said: “We need the right people in the right place at the right time to respond effectively to emergencies. With flooding already a major issue in our region and climate change intensifying the risks, this plan ensures our fire service is ready and equipped to meet these growing challenges.

“Everyone deserves to feel safe—at home, at work, and in our communities. This plan delivers on that promise, ensuring York and North Yorkshire remains a safe place for all.”

Jo Coles, deputy major for policing, fire and crime said: “The Mayor and I are determined to deliver the changes the public wants to see, and to deliver safe places for everyone in our region. We will achieve this by investing in new equipment to tackle evolving risks like climate-driven flooding, expanding fire prevention programs to protect our most vulnerable residents, and working with partners such as the Environment Agency and road safety groups to enhance community resilience.

“The safety of every person in York and North Yorkshire is our unwavering priority—it is the driving force behind every decision we make and every action we take and it’s that commitment at the heart of this Plan.”

The six priorities in the plan are:

• Preparing for major disruptions, working with other organisations to prepare effectively for emergencies and recovering from them when they occur.

• Providing an effective emergency response to incidents across York and North Yorkshire as quickly as possible

• targeted prevention activities to keep people in York and North Yorkshire safe from fires, road traffic collisions, water hazards and other emergencies.

• Supporting people to make buildings safer and protecting people from fire.

• Fostering a culture of excellence and belonging in North Yorkshire and Rescue Service and investing in training, safety and welfare of its workforce.

• Ensuring the long-term financial sustainability of the service.