MORE than 20 organisations have joined forces in Dorset to orchestrate the smooth running of the sailing competition and associated events for the London 2012 Games.

A series of working groups in the county, collectively known as the Weymouth and Portland 2012 Operations Group, have the responsibilities of transport, visitors, culture, health and safety, communications, safety and security and volunteering.

Key contacts for each of the groups will be bringing insight to their activities through a weekly column in the Dorset Echo.

Here are Dorset Fire and Rescue Service’s plans to support the safe sailing events in Weymouth and Portland are firmly in place.

Head of Service for Olympics and Resilience Planning, Bob Hark, outlines the plans to date… LIKE other emergency and public services in Dorset, the big challenge for the Fire and Rescue Service in 2012 will be to plan for and help ensure safe Olympic and Paralympic Games events, whilst maintaining their normal services to the public of Dorset.

With additional funding from the Government now agreed, plans are being put in place to cover the additional risks that the Games will bring to Dorset during the summer 2012.

The Fire Service will focus on preventing fires, road traffic collisions and other emergencies from occurring in the first place, but we will also be fully prepared to respond quickly to whatever occurs. Other support provided by the Fire & Rescue Service includes helping accommodation providers to ensure their facilities meet fire safety standards.

In addition to the full-time hotel and bed and breakfast providers, any accommodation being provided to visitors by private residents, for example under the planned ‘Homestay’ project, also needs to take account of basic precautions and fire safety.

So please remember... if you are thinking of either letting a room or even your whole property you must consider fire safety. Plenty of information and guidance is provided on the on the DFRS web site which can be found at www.dorsetfire.co.uk Click on ‘fire and road safety’ then ‘Olympic 2012’.

Alternatively you can call 01305 252600 and someone will be available to assist and explain what’s required. Dorset Fire and Rescue Service will also be giving advice to those offering accommodation at campsites and caravan sites, to ensure that the increase in campers does not bring an increase in the number of fires.

Whilst there is still much work to be done, Dorset Fire and Rescue Service is confident that everyone who attends the Olympic & Paralympic Games sailing events will be able to do so safely, and the residents of Dorset will still receive the same high quality service from their fire service during summer 2012.

...And remember... fire safety is important all day and every day... so please take care.