About Cork County Fire Service
Cork County Fire Service has 21 fire stations serving the community. It is primarily a retained, part-time service of approximately 220 fire fighters. These are well-trained, dedicated crews who sacrifice their spare time for the safety of the community. The senior command structure incorporates approximately 30 senior professional fire officers, in addition to a competent and supportive administrative staff. The Head of the Department is the Chief Fire /Building Control Officer, Mr Seamus Coughlan.
Cork City Council are in agreement with Cork County Council to provide fire and rescue emergency cover to county areas adjacent to the city boundary. Cork County Fire Service responds to approximately 3,000 emergency incidents each year.
In addition to the fire and rescue service, the Department exercises a major responsibility within the county of assessing the design of all new construction developments (excluding single-family dwellings) to ensure their compliance with part B of the Building Regulations. This is undertaken during the processing of applications for a Fire Safety Certificate for a development. The department also assesses Disability Access Certificate applications to ensure compliance with Part M of the Building Regulations. The department also inspects developments both during and after construction, to ensure their compliance with the Building Regulations. The enforcement of compliance may be pursued by the department.
Cork County Fire Service is also available to provide advice on aspects of fire safety. Educating the public about fire safety in the home is a primary function of the service. Senior officers are available to present seminars on fire safety to local community groups, schools and other organisations on request. Advice on fire safety in non- domestic buildings can also be requested.
Cork County Fire and Building Control Department have powers under the Fire Services Acts, 1981 and 2003 to issue closure and fire safety notices on premises for non-compliance with sections of these Acts.
