Firefighters in Glastonbury scrambled to three bariatric patient emergencies in just the first 18 days of January, according to new figures from the local station.

Crews have handled 19 incidents since the start of the year, including fires, false alarms and road traffic collisions. But it's the number of bariatric rescues — where specialist lifting gear and extra crew are often needed — that's raised eyebrows so early in the year.

Bariatric incidents typically involve patients with severe obesity who can't be safely moved using standard ambulance equipment. Firefighters step in to support medics, often with hoists, stair chairs or structural assistance.

The call-outs are part of a packed start to 2026 for Glastonbury's fire teams, who've also dealt with:

• 3 domestic fires
• 2 building fires
• 2 false alarms
• 1 car crash with people trapped
• 1 chimney fire
• 1 gas-related call
• 1 dangerous structure
• 1 person collapsed
• 1 assist to another agency

The station is urging residents to stay fire-safe this winter, reminding people never to leave candles or incense unattended and always extinguish them before bed.

Locals interested in joining the service can drop in during drill nights held most Mondays and Tuesdays, 18:30 to 20:30, or message the crew on Facebook.

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• Plans for new-look Strode College go before council

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