Thirteen barracks no ‘trash can fire brigade’, Ursem and Slootdorp situation still uncertain

Now that it appears that there is little to no support, the previously presented plan is being wiped off the drawing board. According to the Noord-Holland Noord safety region, the plan was only a ‘thinking direction’ and it has certainly not yet been determined what the fire service will look like in the future.

NH Nieuws has asked the security region why they have changed their mind, but have not yet received an answer. What is certain is that all conversations, surveys and the information obtained is included in a new future vision to be drawn up. It should be presented in 2023.

Happy reactions from fire brigade

Both the national Trade Union Fire Service Volunteers (VBV) and the ‘affected’ fire groups have reacted with joy to the news. For example, Matthias Zijp, commander in Berkhout, says he is relieved. “This is very welcome. We as a team do not experience the problems that they raise, such as occupancy problems. We can turn out every day and continue to offer the basic care that we stand for as a fire service.”

Two weeks ago, Zijp had a conversation with mayor Monique Bonsen (Koggenland) and team commander Kees Jong (West Friesland). That was positively received. “They are going to rethink and reinvent the future vision, but in a different way. A sounding board group is being set up with 25 volunteers. A good move: with each other instead of about each other.”

“We hope to realize this bottom-up and not like last summer: top down. Now the only question that remains is whether they will do something with those sounding boards. Just keep your finger on the pulse”, adds Patrick Nugter, post commander in Wervershoof. He is also relieved that the reorganization plan has come to an end. “We are very happy with this: our concerns are being heard.”

Nevertheless, according to Nugter, there are still changes on the way. “For example, we want to shorten the training: from two to one year. In that year you will already learn basic care: preventing, limiting and fighting fires. After that you can further specialize in hazardous substances and technical assistance. This lowers the threshold, so that we can keep groups open in the future.” We also look at changing crisis types. “Take the asylum policy, for example. Placing camp beds in the sports halls: does that belong to the fire service or security region? It can prevent overlap.”

Close Ursem and Slootdorp?

Nevertheless, there is still some uncertainty about the fire brigade teams in Ursem and Volunteer Fire Department (VBV) at the Trade Union Fire Service Volunteers (VBV). ditch village, which are to close their doors in 2025. “What will happen with this is not yet clear. We are still pursuing this,” said chairman Marcel Dokter, “but the first reports are positive, we are happy with the turning point. We are now in consultation with our supporters, what does that decision mean.” we don’t know yet.”