The Civil Contingencies Act, and accompanying non-legislative measures, delivers a single framework for civil protection in the UK. 

Part 1 of the Act and supporting Regulations and statutory guidance ‘Emergency preparedness’ establish a clear set of roles and responsibilities for those involved in emergency preparation and response at the local level. The Act divides local responders into 2 categories, imposing a different set of duties on each.

The purpose of this requirement is to ensure that Category 1 responders make relevant information available to the public about what will happen in the event of an emergency.

As a Category 1 responder, Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service will consider communicating three principal classes of information to the public:

• A descriptive account of the business continuity plans they have in place for the purposes of reassuring the public;
• Information about the implications of emergencies for the continuity of the Service’s ordinary operations – e.g. possibility of service suspensions or adjustments. Proactively publishing this sort of information in advance of an emergency allows the public to think about their preparations. For example, parents might find it useful to know under which circumstances schools might be closed in the event of severe weather; and
• Sources of information and advice about service continuity issues that the public could consult in the event of an emergency.

In the event of unprecedented events or circumstances, in line with the CCA, RBFRS will liaise with partner agencies, maintain situational awareness, and implement appropriate measures to protect life, property, and the environment.

You can read the latest safety advice on our website.