The second fire engine in Wells will be made available on a risk-based basis, following a decision made today (January 10).

Devon and Somerset Fire Authority initially planned to only crew the second engine at night, but this morning accepted a recommendation that the fire engine be made available on a level of risk basis.

It is hoped the plans will not only make financial savings for the authority but would also improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the service.

Lee Howell, Chief Fire Officer, said: "We are confident that we can secure alternative ways of working with our whole time staff which will allow us to undertake significantly more prevention and protection activity which will also make communities safer."

He said that the proposals they have put forward derive from the options consulted on and the consultation responses, and aims to strike the balance between driving reform and enabling reallocation of resources to risk, specifically providing more prevention and protection activity.

The Fire Authority Members are appointed by the constituent authorities of Devon County Council, Somerset County Council, Torbay Council and Plymouth City Council to oversee the provision of fire and rescue services for the geographical counties of Devon and Somerset.

In total, there are 26 members of the authority, consisting of 16 Conservatives, five from Labour, four from the Liberal Democrats, and one Independent.