Keep our rural fire stations open

We, the undersigned residents and concerned citizens of Kent, call upon Kent Fire & Rescue Service NOT to close any of the fire stations in Kent.

Rural local fire stations are more than buildings and fire engines—they are trusted local resources that help protect vulnerable residents, farms, businesses, local heritage, and communities across our rural areas.

Retained firefighters live and work in the communities they serve. Their local knowledge, community connections, and commitment help make our villages safer and more resilient. They support fire prevention, community engagement, emergency preparedness, and response to floods, wildfires and other emergencies.

Recent climate data reveals an alarming future. As climate change brings hotter, drier summers and wetter winters, rural communities will face increasing challenges from floods, wildfires, field fires and other weather emergencies. The closure of local fire stations in Wye, Chilham and elsewhere across rural Kent leaves our communities critically vulnerable. This is the time to strengthen local resilience, not weaken it.

Once a fire station is lost, the skills, knowledge and community capability it provides are difficult and costly to replace. The five threatened stations should remain open, modernised, and supported for the future.

Strong communities need local fire stations. Keep ours open. Sign the petition.