We conduct a strategic risk assessment to evaluate all risk affecting our communities to support our aim of 'Making West Yorkshire Safer'.
We put in place arrangements to prevent and mitigate identified risks, either through adjusting existing provision, effective collaboration and partnership working, or developing new capability.
Understanding and assessing risk
The term risk generally refers to the possibility of something bad happening; something with the potential to cause harm. It involves uncertainty about the effects or implications of an activity, often focusing on negative, undesirable consequences. To manage risk, our strategic risk assessment methodology is regularly updated, ensuring we are prepared for all foreseeable emergencies. This process aligns with the National Risk Register, and the West Yorkshire Community Risk Register.
We will continue to learn from significant events, whether they are local, regional, national, or international.
Understanding and assessing vulnerabilities within our communities
Societal trends are resulting in a growing number of vulnerable individuals, which in turn is increasing the risk within our communities.
These trends include:
- People living longer.
- Increasingly complex health needs, including mental health.
- Deprivation and the rising cost of living.
- Expanded community care.
These factors are central to our efforts in identifying the most vulnerable individuals within our communities to mitigate fire risks. By utilising data from various sources, we can pinpoint the areas with the highest vulnerability. This enables us to focus our prevention activities on those most at risk.