Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service has introduced new body-worn camera technology across the county, as part of a wider effort to strengthen public safety and support firefighters and officers at incidents.
A total of 160 Axon body-worn cameras have now been rolled out to fire stations across Norfolk. Each fire appliance and operational officer has been issued with a device, alongside protection and prevention officers carrying out business safety inspections and home visits. Fire investigation officers, the service’s training school and Trading Standards officers have also been equipped, with ten cameras allocated specifically for Trading Standards investigations.
The Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service body-worn cameras are designed to support decision making during live incidents. The devices offer live streaming, location data and two-way communication, allowing footage to be shared directly with control room staff handling 999 calls while incidents are still unfolding. The service says this provides clearer situational awareness during complex or fast-moving events.
Live streaming footage also plays a role in improving firefighter safety. By identifying hazards earlier and sharing real-time information, the cameras help improve coordination with partner agencies including police and ambulance services, ensuring resources are deployed effectively when lives are at risk.
The rollout was completed in December and early use has already generated close to 100 hours of recorded footage across more than 500 video clips. The footage is being securely stored and will be used for learning, training and investigative purposes.
Scott Norman, Deputy Chief Fire Officer at Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We’re keen to utilise technology wherever we can to keep the people of Norfolk safe, and these body-worn cameras are a great demonstration of that.
“The devices will be brought in to support firefighters at all of our stations in Norfolk, helping us with learning at incidents, providing evidence for fire investigations, and enhancing the safety of our staff. Our teams have already said they’re benefiting from the technology, so I’m sure this will be a major boost for how our service operates, and for the communities we serve.”
Norfolk County Council has also welcomed the introduction of the technology. Councillor Margaret Dewsbury, Cabinet Member for Communities and Partnerships, said: “I am really pleased NFRS and Trading Standards have taken this step to use body-worn cameras. This new technology will enhance the fantastic work already undertaken by the services, offering multiple benefits to keep staff and Norfolk’s communities safe.”
The Axon Body 4 cameras represent the latest generation of the company’s body-worn technology. Alongside operational benefits, the Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service body-worn cameras are intended to support transparency, post-incident review and professional development. The footage can be used to improve training and help maintain public confidence in fire and rescue services.
This deployment is Axon’s second-largest body-worn camera rollout with a UK fire and rescue service, following a similar programme in West Yorkshire. Axon currently works with eight UK fire services, while more than half of UK police forces use its body-worn camera technology.
Alex Lowe, Senior Director for UK and Ireland at Axon, said: “We’re delighted that Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service is adopting our cutting-edge body-worn camera technology. Our cameras have been invaluable for first responders, and we’re excited to see them play an important role in ensuring fire personnel safety and enhancing public trust in Norfolk.”
