Newly released figures have highlighted the physical toll faced by firefighters in Wales, as emergency services continue to operate under increasing pressure and demand.

Data obtained by Accident Claims Advice shows that more than 100 firefighters employed by Mid and West Wales Fire Service have sustained injuries while on duty over the past three years.

Firefighting remains one of the most hazardous public sector professions in the UK. Crews are regularly required to attend building fires, serious road traffic collisions and hazardous incidents, often working in extreme heat, unstable environments and emotionally challenging situations while handling heavy equipment.

National figures underline the scale of the issue. Official data for England for the year ending March 2024 recorded 2,408 on-duty firefighter injuries, with around 40% occurring during frontline operational incidents, including fires, rescues and emergency callouts.

Within Mid and West Wales, injury levels peaked in 2023/24, when 41 firefighters were hurt while working. Although this figure marked the joint-highest total across the three-year period, the most recent year saw a modest reduction, with 38 injuries recorded.

As a result of workplace injuries sustained since 2022, firefighters have submitted 7 claims against the service, resulting in total compensation payments of £56,469.

Common injuries reported include burns, smoke inhalation, musculoskeletal damage, slips and falls, and impact injuries caused by falling debris or collapsing structures. National reviews have repeatedly identified factors such as reduced staffing, rising incident complexity and ageing facilities as contributors to higher workplace risk across fire and rescue services.

Further figures obtained by Accident Claims Advice show that slips, trips and falls were the most frequent cause of injury within Mid and West Wales Fire & Rescue Service over the past three years, accounting for 30 incidents. This was followed by sprains and strains, which resulted in 20 injuries.

Accident Claims Advice offers support to those who have suffered injuries whilst at work and can see if they have grounds to submit a claim.

They operate a 24-hour helpline, with an online claim form too, which you can access on their website.