Blackpool firefighters have disclosed that the town’s second fire engine has been taken off the run 58 times so far in 2026 because of severe staffing shortages, sparking serious safety concerns for the public.
Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) introduced this controversial policy a year ago, which also impacts nearby towns including Preston, Blackburn, and Burnley. Firefighters warn that this reduction in coverage increases risks to lives in an area with the highest fire rate across the county.
Based on LFRS statistics, Blackpool leads Lancashire in fire risk, accidental dwelling fires, and fire casualties. Despite this, it suffers disproportionately from engine removals, undermining emergency response capacity in the town that needs it most.
The policy has also extended to one-pump stations. Fleetwood’s fire engine was taken off the run on June 5 and South Shore’s on July 1, further stretching limited resources along the Fylde Coast.
During a serious house fire in Blackpool on June 30, both fire engines were available, allowing firefighters to save five casualties, including two who required CPR. However, at the same time, neighbouring stations Bispham and South Shore were engaged with a major fire in Ormskirk, leaving Fleetwood’s engine—the next closest—15 minutes away.
A firefighter has called on the public and local officials to push for significant recruitment and funding increases to strengthen frontline staffing. They highlighted the contrast between spending on new vehicles and buildings and the plummeting firefighter availability, all funded by taxpayers.
The message is clear: ensure Blackpool has two fire engines ready every shift and restore fire cover across the Fylde Coast.
Residents are urged to contact local councillors, MPs, and the Fire Authority, participate in consultations, and voice concerns to apply public pressure on decision-makers. Firefighters warn that without urgent attention, future emergencies could have far worse outcomes.
Originally published by UKNIP.
