Fire Brigade

Under the Fire and Rescue Services Act 2004, a fire-fighter who is on duty may enter any premises where a fire has broken out, or where there is reason to believe a fire has broken out. Other premises, such as neighbouring houses, may also be entered if this is necessary for fire-fighting purposes. The fire officer can force entry if necessary. The permission of the owner or occupier does not have to be obtained . The officer may also restrict your entry to premises in similar situations.

Under the Emergency Works (Obstruction) Act 2006, it is an offence to obstruct or interfere without reasonable excusewith any member of a fire brigade, or anyone assisting them (whether or not the assistant is a member of the emergency services) who is involved in fighting a fire . You can be convicted even if the obstruction is not by physical means , and even if it is directed at the person’s vehicle or equipment, rather than the fire-fighter or assistant him- or herself. The maximum penalty on conviction is a fine of level 5 (currently £5,000) .

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