Consider guidance on firefighter initiative deviations
That National Fire Chiefs Council consider whether, and if so in what circumstances, firefighters should be discouraged from departing from their instructions on their own initiative and provide appropriate training in how to respond to a situation of that kind. (113.65)
- The government's annual report stated NFCC reviewed guidance on crew briefing and debriefing, completing its review in September 2025, and initiated a change request process for new hazard and control measures guidance (Annual Report on Progress, MHCLG, February 2026).
How was this evidence gathered?
Response
Accepted
Response
AcceptedThe National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) accepts this recommendation. Firefighters operate in an extremely high-risk and dynamic environment where responding to changes is essential to safe working practice. The ability to communicate changes in the operating environment, in real time, and the need to deviate from objectives at times, is essential. NFCC has reviewed existing relevant guidance on the briefing and debriefing of crews and is surveying fire and rescue services to determine what additional measures might support awareness and training in this area. The NFCC will produce a delivery plan by the end of April 2025 to set out what actions it will take as a result.
The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) accepts this recommendation. Firefighters operate in an extremely high-risk and dynamic environment where responding to changes is essential to safe working practice. The ability to communicate changes in the operating environment, in real time, and the need to deviate from objectives at times, is essential. NFCC has reviewed existing relevant guidance on the briefing and debriefing of crews and is surveying fire and rescue services to determine what additional measures might support awareness and training in this area. The NFCC will produce a delivery plan by the end of April 2025 to set out what actions it will take as a result.
Progress Timeline
NFCC reviewed guidance on crew briefing and debriefing. Review concluded September 2025. Change request process initiated; new hazard and control measures proposed for Incident Command guidance. Approval targeted before April 2026; publication June 2026.