News
Firefighters to now wear cameras after Manchester Arena Inquiry recommendations
The rollout follows a successful trial back in May 2025.
Emily Sergeant -
13th April 2026 
Firefighters in Greater Manchester are to now start using body-worn cameras following recommendations from the Manchester Arena Inquiry.
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) has says the Inquiry ‘highlighted the importance’ of capturing clear information and recording decision-making during major incidents, particularly when multiple emergency services are required to respond to ‘complex and fast-moving’ situations, as was, of course, the case with the Manchester Arena attack back in 2017.
The introduction of body-worn cameras will support this by providing a real-time record of what crews see, hear, and communicate while attending incidents.
A total of 233 cameras will be rolled out across the service, giving firefighters the ability to record high-definition video and audio while attending incidents.
We’re rolling out body‑worn video cameras across our Service following Manchester Arena Inquiry recommendations.
— Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (@manchesterfire) April 11, 2026
The technology will support operational learning, transparency and real‑time decision‑making – helping our firefighters and officers provide the best possible… pic.twitter.com/aoHezIXWEv
The devices can also livestream footage in real time, so that senior officers can view incidents as they unfold and provide additional support when it’s needed most.
Frontline officers who attend incidents will be the first to receive the cameras, followed by prevention and protection teams, and then the incident command academy as the rollout continues.
Following a successful pilot trial back in May 2025, when the cameras were tested in real incident conditions, the cameras will now be used at a wide range of incidents – from house fires and road traffic collisions, to larger and more complex emergencies.
Footage will help crews to review how incidents were handled, improve training, and strengthen safety for both firefighters and the public.
“Introducing body worn cameras is a significant step forward for our service,” commented Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Carlos Meakin. “It’s about giving firefighters the tools they need to work safely and effectively at complex or fast-moving incidents, while also helping to protect our crews by providing a clear record of the challenges they face on the frontline.
“The ability to livestream footage and review it afterwards will strengthen how we support crews on the ground, improve training, and enhance how we respond to major emergencies.
Read more:
- Greater Manchester’s fire service officially rated ‘outstanding’ following inspection
- Staff at four Greater Manchester hospitals to start wearing body-worn cameras after rise ‘abusive behaviour’
- Greater Manchester’s fire service revealed as ‘most improved’ in UK
“This investment reflects our commitment to learning from the Manchester Arena Inquiry and continuing to strengthen how we respond to incidents across Greater Manchester.”
Featured Image – GMFRS
