Establish water undertaker communication protocols

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC)

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) began developing an action and delivery plan to address the recommendations. This work was informed by a survey of fire and rescue services to understand current arrangements and identify where further support might be needed. The plan was subsequently shared with key stakeholders, including MHCLG.

We published in September 2025 that the NFCC had worked with Water UK to update the National Guidance on the Provision of Water for Firefighting, with all proposed changes accepted and published. The NFCC also shared survey findings with Ofwat, submitted evidence to inquiries on water sector reform, and raised fire and rescue service concerns through the Environment Agency’s consultation.

By the end of 2025, further discussions had taken place on the need for a more comprehensive review of the guidance, particularly around accessibility and readability. The NFCC continued engagement with Ofwat and other stakeholders, including responding to consultations and planning further work following the Water Reform White Paper.

The recommendation is now complete and has been fully discharged.

‎The London Fire Brigade (LFB)

‎Engagement with water companies increased following the London Fire Commissioner’s correspondence in early 2025. Discussions were held with Thames Water, Affinity Water, and Essex & Suffolk Water, with ongoing collaboration to support operational arrangements.

Water companies were also involved in reviewing and contributing to London Fire Brigade’s (LFB) training, and data provided by Affinity Water and Thames Water is being used through LFB systems to help operational teams identify water supply zones. A revised National Guidance Document on water provision for firefighting was published, setting out clearer protocols and training expectations.

Later in the year, this engagement continued with water undertakers across the London area, working alongside other fire and rescue services and the National Fire Chiefs Council. Work focused on standardising protocols, sharing information, and embedding best practice to support continuous improvement.

The use of shared data tools remains in place, and the revised national guidance continues to underpin stronger operational and training arrangements between LFB and water companies.