Fire cover could be lost in rural Shropshire if firefighters are not treated as frontline workers and vaccinated

New rules have been introduced that require firefighters to self-isolate for ten days if they have been in contact with someone who has tested positive with Covid-19. That could decimate fire cover in rural areas of Shropshire and take out entire stations.
Andy Boddington, Shropshire Councillor for Ludlow North explains:
I have been contacted by a number of retained firefighters over the last few days. They are concerned that if one member of the crew on a shout has a positive test the rest are put into self-isolation. They are concerned that Ludlow and surrounding areas may have to rely on fire crews from further afield. They say that will increase the risk to life and could increase injuries and distress.
a time. All these firefighters could all be asked to stand down if one person at the station tests positive.
continue doing so.
The firefighters are concerned that paramedics attending, though vaccinated, could still spread the disease.

Nigel Hartin is Shropshire Councillor for Clun and a member of the Shropshire and Telford and Wrekin Fire Authority:
in rural stations are retained. They have jobs that they must leave at a moment’s notice to ensure that people and property are safe.
there is a