Timely weekend reminder of all those who can’t stay safe - Editor's comment

It has been another busy weekend for our emergency services with a timely reminder that, no matter what, there are thousands of Sheffielders looking out for us every minute of every day.
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The vast majority of us are doing exactly what we are meant to be doing, staying home and struggling to contain our boredom.

We are so appreciative of our health workers but also more shielded from the fact that there are many services which are keeping going on our behalf, pandemic or not.

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Fire and police teams worked for hours yesterday to tackle the blaze on Chesterfield Road. It must have been horrendous for everybody involved. Families had to huddle together for warmth as the fire raged.

Emergency services dealing with a blaze in HeeleyEmergency services dealing with a blaze in Heeley
Emergency services dealing with a blaze in Heeley
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Mourning the milestone that none of us wanted city to see - Editor's comment

To witness that destruction in these temperatures would test anybody. Then you have to throw in all the social distancing rules and safety fears. My heart goes out to all those who live nearby but also every member of our emergency services who never put themselves first.

They turn out whenever we need them and simply can’t protect themselves in the same way as the rest of us in less public-facing roles.

We rarely remember to show our appreciation. Quite the opposite in the case of the thousands of Sheffielders who make up our police force and now have to face the extra threat of those who use coronavirus as a weapon against officers by deliberately spitting on them. It makes staying in our own four walls seem much more attractive when you think of what others are going through. I know it is challenging to keep positive but let’s try looking through other eyes more often.

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Winter lockdown has very little going in its favour and Storm Darcy is the last thing any of us want. Yes, it looks very pretty through the window but it just adds to our problems. I know that the vast majority of us are doing our very best to stick to the guidelines through better and worst days but the bad weather puts extra strain on our struggling NHS. Winter inevitably brings its own range of issues as well as icy roads or pavements adding to the casualties needing help when hospitals are already flat out. Please, for the sake of those battling to keep our city going, stay home and be grateful for members of Team Sheffield who don’t have that luxury.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.

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