Firefighters won't be able to do their job properly with fewer crews and fewer appliances. Response times will go up, buildings will be lost, and people may die who could've been saved. This is why the temporary withdrawal of appliances from Greenock Fire Station and the planned cuts to firefighter numbers at Port Glasgow Fire Station by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) are incredibly alarming.

For the residents of Inverclyde, fire safety is a critical concern. The removal of crucial firefighting resources from our community increases the risk to lives and property. Fires won't wait for resources to arrive—they demand immediate intervention. Slower response times mean more significant damage and potential loss of life.

In 2022, Firefighters responded to over 26,000 fires across Scotland, saving lives and property through their rapid response and expertise. With fewer personnel and appliances, their ability to serve and protect our towns effectively is severely compromised. We shouldn't have to gamble with the safety of our community.

Fire stations in Greenock and Port Glasgow have been pillars of security and efficiency in firefighting efforts. The proposed cuts put our community at unnecessary risk, especially considering the rising trends in emergencies due to climate change and other emerging risks.

We urge the SFRS to consider the grave implications of their decision and reverse the appliance withdrawal at Greenock Fire Station. Additionally, they must not implement cuts to firefighters at Port Glasgow Fire Station. Instead, they should invest in our firefighting resources to ensure we can respond quickly and effectively to emergencies.

Please join us in calling on the SFRS to prioritize the safety of Inverclyde residents by signing this petition. Together, we can ensure that our community remains protected and that our firefighters have the resources they need to save lives.