Data obtained by Accident Claims Advice shows that more than 100 firefighters working for North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service have been injured while on duty over the past three years.
Official figures for England for the year ending March 2024 recorded 2,408 on-duty firefighter injuries, with approximately 40% occurring during operational incidents such as emergency responses, rescues and active fires.
Within North Yorkshire, injury figures peaked in 2022/23, when 50 firefighters were injured while working, marking the highest total recorded by the service in the past three years.
More recent data shows a reduction, with 26 injuries recorded over the last year, though the risks remain significant.
The injuries sustained by firefighters can range from burns and smoke inhalation to musculoskeletal damage, slips, trips and impact injuries caused by falling debris or collapsing structures.
The data also reveals that nine injury claims have been brought against the service since 2022, resulting in £48,024.84 in compensation payments.
Further analysis by Accident Claims Advice identified the most common causes of injury across North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service over the past three years. Handling, lifting and carrying were the leading contributors, accounting for 28 injuries, followed by slips, trips and falls, which resulted in 15 injuries.
Speaking about the need for increased investment, Adam Taylor, Fire Brigades Union national officer, said:
“Too often firefighters are not being provided with the basic equipment and training they need to keep themselves and the public safe.
“Without proper PPE, firefighters face an impossible choice between heat stroke and exposing themselves to burns, either from flames or the sun.
“We urgently need investment to sort out this problem. We also need national standards on equipment and training, as well as response times and crewing levels.”
North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service operates 38 fire stations across the county, serving communities including York, Harrogate and Scarborough.
The highest number of injuries was recorded in Hambleton and Richmondshire, with 42 incidents, followed by Scarborough and Ryedale, which logged 24 injuries.
Accident Claims Advice offers support to those who have suffered injuries whilst at work and can see if they have grounds to submit a claim.
They operate a 24-hour helpline, with an online claim form too, which you can access on their website.
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