Staff at the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s new North Operations Control told an MSP earlier today how they protect communities.

Rhoda Grant MSP heard how the team has handled around 4,500 emergency calls across the North since the facility launched on 29 September last year.

SFRS Group Manager Libby Logan also told Ms Grant how they combine their experience with a robust mobilising system and the knowledge of local crews.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service continues to attend at every emergency.

A new North Operations Control building will be unveiled later this year at the same site in Dundee’s Macalpine Road.

This is part of a multi-million pound investment to further enhance resilience.

Ms Grant had earlier been welcomed by Chair of the SFRS Board, Pat Watters, Chief Fire Officer, Alasdair Hay, and Area Manager Tony Hughes.

Mr Watters said: “It was an absolute pleasure to welcome Rhoda Grant to our new North Operations Control at Dundee today to make clear our absolute commitment to protecting communities.

“We were also delighted to introduce her to our dedicated control staff who stand on that unseen front line, handling thousands of emergency calls from the public each year.

“The command and control of Fire and Rescue assets depends on not only the mobilising system but also the local knowledge of crews who are on the ground - and able to respond.

“They essentially work together as a team to respond in times of emergency.

“I wholeheartedly commend their professionalism and their commitment as we continue to move forward as a national service.”

The refurbishment of the North operations control room concludes the SFRS migration programme.  The next phase will now focus on the procurement and implementation of the new command and control mobilising system.