I didnt know this would create such interest to be honest. I will, however, without hopefully unnecessarily prolonging the subject try to respond to a number of points made. Firstly, while as a result of lack of training, mistakes are certainly made, I think fundamental errors of the type we are discussing would not happen in most FRSs. I think a lot has to do with the way fire safety is managed (?) in the particular FRS.
Davey, With regard to the man (always one to consider the human side, you commies), we offered him free training and the offer was reiterated to the DO, who told us that, while acknowledging it was a genuine offer (which it was), it would be difficult for the FRS to accept. I am unclear as to why, but then I dont really purport to understand FRS ways.
Davey, Yes it was my full intention to frame the cheque, but it was banked before I had a chance. It would have taken pride of place alonside my drum exam passes. (For our large met brigade friends, a drum is a musical instrument, not slang for a house.)
Messey, I have little care for the rumours and half truths. The anecdote I relayed is the troof, the ole troof and nuffin but the troof, guv. You can see the papers if you wish.
Messey, There was no need to run with the legal action, given that the point was accepted by the FRS, who tried to make things right in an honourable way.
Messey, There are far fewer obnoxious I/os than people would claim. They are generally a thing of the past. Equally, the most difficult thing for some of our own ex fire officers to take on board when they join us is that they are NOT the worlds experts on all matters ( only black taxi drivers are that-lest this be thought as a racist comment , black refers to the colour of the cab, not the driver). The thing they have to learn quickly is to know when NOT to give advice. To be fair, most learn this quickly, but one wonders why they were never taught this in the FRS.
