West Midlands Fire Chief prepares for The Emergency Services Show on home ground

The Emergency Services Show is always a landmark event for West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS), with the NEC sitting within its patch. This year carries added significance as it marks the first show for new Chief Fire Officer Simon Tuhill, who stepped into the role earlier in 2025.

Speaking ahead of the show on the For Every Response podcast, Tuhill reflected on his first months in post and set out his priorities for the service.

With more than two decades of fire service experience, including 22 years at London Fire Brigade and leadership roles in Hertfordshire and Northamptonshire, he has seen the sector respond to some of its biggest challenges, from the 7/7 terrorist attacks to the aftermath of Grenfell.

“Stepping into the West Midlands role is a privilege. It’s about building on a strong foundation while making sure we’re ready for the future.”

Balancing budgets and investing in people

Tuhill takes charge at a time when services across the country are managing tight budgets while also needing to invest in new capabilities. For him, leadership is about ensuring frontline crews remain well-equipped, well-trained and fully supported.

In the months ahead, WMFS plans to expand incident command training, improve facilities and strengthen resilience against risks ranging from wildfires to large-scale urban incidents.

Technology and inspection

New technologies are firmly on the agenda. WMFS is trialling drones, exploring how artificial intelligence could support operational decision-making, and continuing research into contaminants and the long-term health of firefighters.

“Technology is moving fast, and the question for us is how to harness it in ways that genuinely improve firefighter and public safety.”

The service is also preparing for its forthcoming Best Value Inspection, which will assess how effectively it is meeting statutory duties. Tuhill said scrutiny should be seen as an opportunity to demonstrate transparency and accountability.

Local exhibitors on show

The Emergency Services Show is not just about frontline services, but also the wider network of organisations that support them. This year two first-time exhibitors with strong Birmingham roots will be present.

Worcestershire Medal Service, based in the city’s historic Jewellery Quarter, will be displaying the Elizabeth Emblem, a national symbol presented to the families of those who lose their lives while serving the public. You can read my write-up of my visit to their factory here.

Nearby in Smethwick, Eurox, a family-run business, will showcase its specialist outerwear for police forces, with a focus on sustainable packaging and customer-led innovation.

WMFS on home ground

Visitors can expect WMFS to have a strong presence at the show. Live demonstrations of operational skills will take place, alongside opportunities to meet crews in the Community Hub. A highlight will be the appearance of Giddy, the service’s much-loved fire investigation dog.

For Tuhill, The Emergency Services Show is more than an opportunity to showcase his service, it is a chance to connect with peers, explore innovation and reinforce the importance of collaboration across emergency services.

“Events like this remind us that none of us work in isolation. Fire and rescue is part of a much bigger system, and collaboration is key.”

Looking ahead

With a new Chief Fire Officer at the helm, WMFS is entering its next chapter with a focus on innovation, accountability and supporting its people.

“Our people are our greatest strength,” added Tuhill. “My job is to make sure they have the tools, the confidence and the leadership they need to keep doing what they do best: protecting communities.”

You can catch all of this and more at The Emergency Services Show this week, at the NEC in Birmingham. Register for your free ticket here.