16/9/2009 - Firefighters tackle dirty cars to help charity and spread safety message

Firefighters across Cumbria will be wielding buckets and sponges this Saturday (19 September) as part of the Fire Fighters Charity national car wash day. 

In addition to gleaming wheels and free safety advice, motorists will be able to donate to the national charity that offers help to serving and retired fire service personnel and their families.

The car wash event is also linked to Home Fire Safety initiatives where firefighters will advise members of the local community on how to stay safe in their homes.

Every 30 seconds in the UK, fire fighters are called to an incident, putting their lives on the line, and often sustaining physical injury whilst carrying out their duties. The Fire Fighters Charity is here for fire fighters during their times of need, and assists over 13,000 individuals every year by providing pioneering treatment and support services.

The following stations will be taking part in the car wash:

Allerdale: Workington, Maryport, Wigton, Keswick

Barrow

Carlisle

Copeland: Whitehaven

Eden: Kirkby Stephen

South Lakeland: Kendal, Ulverston, Ambleside, Grange, Milnthorpe, Sedbergh, Windermere.

Speaking ahead of the event, Cumbria’s deputy chief fire officer, John Moorcroft, said: "This is a great opportunity for the county's drivers to get some potentially life-saving advice while at the same time contributing towards a very worthwhile cause.

"The event will give motorists the chance to skip the weekly chore of washing the car, and use the time to find out how to make their homes safe from fire.

"There will also be the chance to sign up for free home safety visits where fire fighters will visit at a later date to highlight any potential fire hazards and fit smoke detectors where required at no charge."

Cllr Gary Strong, cabinet member with responsibility for Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service, said: "For so many of Cumbria's firefighters to use their own free time to help raise money for charity speaks volumes about them. 

"I hope that people will get down there with their cars and have a nice family day to support a valuable charity that benefits all firefighters in the county."

Members of the public can arrange to have a free home safety visit at any time by calling Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service on 0800 358 4777.

The charity has three centres across the country, in Cumbria, Devon and West Sussex.

ENDS

Media enquiries to Media Officer Chris Little on 01228 226335