Fire officers to discuss climate change challenge

Challenges faced by fire and rescue services in dealing with the consequences of climate change will be focused on today.

The Chief Fire Officers Association Conference (CFOA) opens in Galway, showcasing initiatives for the fire and emergency services.

Under the theme 'Climate Change – Challenges For The Fire And Emergency Services', the conference will tackle the issue from both a fire protection and operational point of view.

Environment Minister John Gormley and Irish Times Environment Editor Frank McDonald will address delegates, while expert speakers from the emergency services sectors will outline their experience and knowledge.

The recent flooding in the UK and challenges for emergency services there, the experiences of forest fires in southern Europe, and fire safety issues involved in high-rise residential construction will be among the key issues highlighted.

The CFOA Road Traffic Accident Report will be presented tomorrow morning.