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Emergency services from across London, the East and South East came together for UK Power Networks’ inaugural Emergency Services Awareness Day, aimed at enhancing collaboration and safety coordination between the electricity network operator and 999 responders.
Held at the company’s dedicated training centre in Sundridge, Kent, the event brought together police, fire and ambulance teams to share knowledge, build relationships and learn more about how to work safely around high-voltage infrastructure during emergencies such as storms, fires, floods, road accidents and other public safety incidents.
As Britain’s largest electricity distributor, UK Power Networks plays a critical role in enabling safe emergency response by ensuring power is de-energised where needed, allowing rescue operations to proceed safely. The awareness day focused on network resilience, site safety, and the tools and protocols that support efficient joint operations.
Visitors had the opportunity to use immersive technology to virtually explore a live substation in the South East, while apprentices demonstrated procedures such as de-energising overhead lines, connecting underground cables and working within substations. UK Power Networks also revealed plans to pilot QR codes on substations, giving first responders instant access to vital site safety documentation. Responders were reminded of a core safety message: always treat electrical infrastructure as live and keep clear until UK Power Networks confirms it is safe — especially following extreme weather or collisions that may have compromised equipment.
Leon Ford, Head of Training and Assurance at UK Power Networks, emphasised the importance of collaboration: “We were delighted to welcome emergency responders to our first Awareness Day. We have Memorandums of Understanding with many of these organisations, helping us to create safer working environments during joint operations. Safety is our top priority, and this event supports the strong relationships that keep both our teams and the public safe.”
For responders, the event offered a rare behind-the-scenes look at a ‘Category 2’ responder’s capabilities. Rob Cox, General Manager for 999 Operations at London Ambulance Service, said: “It’s not often we get to see what non-blue light responders like UK Power Networks can offer. This event has been a real eye-opener in terms of what joint working can achieve during emergencies.”
Jim Smart, Crew Manager for Technical Rescue at Kent Fire and Rescue Service, added: “We welcome opportunities like this to share experiences with the electricity industry. When we call UK Power Networks, we know expert help is on the way. They make every effort to get the right person, with the right skills, to the scene quickly.”
Martin Pemble, Search Adviser at Kent Police, echoed the sentiment: “It’s better to build partnerships off the playing field than on the battlefield. We’ve strengthened our understanding of how to call on UK Power Networks for support. This event has been massively beneficial.”
Emergency responders in attendance included representatives from Kent Police, Kent Fire and Rescue Service, Metropolitan Police, London Ambulance Service NHS Trust, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service, Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service and Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service.
By fostering closer ties with frontline responders, UK Power Networks aims to ensure that safety remains at the forefront during any incident involving electricity infrastructure.
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