Hereford city centre emergency procedures guidance published

City centre shopkeepers in Hereford have been given guidance on what to do should there be a major emergency affecting the area.

Copies of the new Hereford city centre emergency procedures and evacuation guidance have been handed out to traders by Herefordshire Council's emergency planning team and the city centre manager, Cynthia Spaull.

The council has a responsibility, along with its colleagues in the emergency services, to respond to major emergencies. The organisations have to work together to mitigate the effects of such an event.

"Most everyday emergencies are dealt with by our colleagues in the emergency services. However, we recognise our responsibility to care for people in need of shelter, warmth and food," said council emergency planning officer Nigel Thomas.

"This plan explains to businesses and shopkeepers what our roles are and helps them understand what they need to do should we every have a major emergency in the inner city area," he added.

The plan has been put together with input from a number of agencies: West Mercia Police, West Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Trust, Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, the Hereford City Partnership, Maylord Shopping Centre and Herefordshire Council.

Speaking on behalf of the Partnership, Cynthia Spaull said: "We're pleased with this plan which sets out in easily understandable terms how those who live and work in the city centre should respond in an emergency,"

"Emergency planning is about being prepared for the worst but hoping it never happens," added Nigel.

"This plan will be a tremendous help should we ever face a major emergency in the city centre. This is very unlikely, but shoppers, visitors and residents of the city centre can be assured that if need be, we have a comprehensive plan which ensures people's safety and allows a speedy return to normality."