On-call firefighters in Oakham and Uppingham are taking to the saddle in a new initiative to help reduce the risk of fires in the communities.

The newly-formed Community Fire Cycle Crew was launched yesterday (Weds) and will see on-call firefighters on bikes in and around the two towns, giving safety advice to residents.

The unique project is run by on-call firefighters, who not only give up their time to attend emergency calls, but also provide the community with a wide range of advice on how they can stay safe.

The idea came from on-call firefighter Matt McMullan from Melton Mowbray Fire and Rescue Station, which is also taking part in the initiative.

"The role of a firefighter is changing and a large proportion of our role now involves key education and prevention work within our communities.

"By being out and about on our bikes, it makes us highly visible and gives residents the chance to stop and speak to us about any fire or safety concerns they may have.

"As a team, we hope to build strong links within each of our communities, to help us achieve our overall goal of 'safer people, safer places'," explains Matt.

The Community Fire Cycle Crew aims is to reduce the risk of fires in the home, as well as accidental and deliberate fires in the community.

They will be offering home safety checks to residents and will fit smoke alarms in homes that do not have them, or in homes that have defective smoke alarms.

By going directly into residents' homes to check on their safety, the team is able to make referrals to partner agency, First Contact Plus, for those who may need additional support to improve their overall wellbeing.

Another part of the Community Fire Cycle Crew's remit will be to visit local youth groups to deliver key water, fire and road safety advice to young people.

Matt added: "No matter how small the issue, we want to hear about it so we can help.

"Whether this is reporting fire safety concerns such as fly tipping, deliberate fire hot spots or just referring a friend or neighbour for a Home Safety Check or smoke alarm fitting, please get in touch.

"Together we can help to reduce the risk of deliberate and accidental fires in your community."

To find out more about your local Community Fire Cycle Crew, follow them on social media;

Oakham

Facebook: Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service Oakham Station

Uppingham

Facebook: Uppingham Fire Station Leicestershire Fire and Rescue