Three firefighters are facing disciplinary action after allowing children, including a young boy recovering from cancer, to take rides on their fire engine during an open day at the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS). The incident occurred on an off-duty engine during a public event.
An investigation was launched by GMFRS bosses after the crew was reported. The service is understood to believe the inquiry should proceed because the rides took place on a public highway. Firefighters involved expressed dismay, with one stating that the boy, who loves fire engines, and his parents had their day made. This individual described the engine's journey as brief, covering about a quarter of a mile and involving a single roundabout loop, lasting less than two minutes.
The firefighter further commented that such activities are common and part of community engagement efforts often promoted by fire brigades, suggesting the current reaction is disproportionate. The action is perceived by some within the service as part of a broader crackdown on discipline by the professional standards department, with a call for common sense to be applied in this instance. There is also reported dissatisfaction among rank-and-file firefighters, with discussions about potential industrial action beyond striking.
A spokesperson for the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service stated that the service does not comment on individual employee matters while investigations are ongoing. The spokesperson added that concerns about conduct are addressed through appropriate procedures to maintain expected standards. It was also noted that the fire appliance would have been off-duty and only deployed in the event of a major fire requiring multiple engines.
The ongoing investigation aims to determine if any health and safety regulations were breached and the exact number of rides given.