Firefighters help people with their groceries during freezing weather

In between emergency calls, Red Watch in the county town have been out in their local community, knocking on people’s doors and checking they have enough bread, milk and emergency supplies.

Crews were able to locate elderly people by asking their neighbours. The elderly in particular have been badly affected by the freezing weather conditions with carers not being able to get to them.

So the kind-hearted action of the crews has, quite literally, been a potential life-saver.

Once loaded up with shopping orders, Red Watch crews headed off to Tesco in Lewes and were even able to negotiate a discount with the store.

Steve Deacon, Watch Manager, said: “When we delivered all the shopping, we were able to talk to people about fire safety and keeping safe in their homes, so it was a great opportunity to ensure people were safe.

“Red Watch are doing an absolutely fantastic job and we’ll be looking out for anyone else in need of support.”