Thank you for your request under the Environmental Information Regulations.
We can confirm that Essex County Fire & Rescue Service (ECFRS) does hold some of the information you have requested.
Please see below the answer to your request.
Questions and final response
Question 1- I am a catchment risk assessor at Cambridge Water where part of my role involves looking into the potential sources that may impact water quality. We are currently conducting some research into the risks of PFAS across our catchments which includes researching the use of AFFFs which are known to contain (or have historically contained PFAS compounds). As part of Essex County Fire & Rescue service boarders Cambridgeshire, I was hoping some information could be provided on foam storage in Saffron Walden fire station
Foam is stored on the appliances. Replenishment stocks are stored at ECFRS workshops.
The Bulk Foam Modules are located at Maldon, Orsett and Stansted Fire Stations.
Question 2 - your general policy regarding AFFFs?
The Environment Agency is informed, as and when ECFRS use foam, operationally or otherwise.
Question 3 - If you could also provide any incidents which have used AFFFs using PFAS in the area above Saffron Walden and Kelshall?
We have searched our Incident Recording system for any incidents containing the words ‘PFA’s ‘and ‘AFFF’s’.
No incidents were returned. We attach a list of incidents that ECFRS have attended in the Saffron Walden area, where foam was used in firefighting operations.
The area of Kelsall sits under Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service (HFRS), they should be approached to provide the information that you request.
We hope this information is useful to you.