Fire service changes its mind and will pay legal firefighters' legal costs

The Fire Service will now support its members if they need legal assistance. Photo / File

The Fire Service has done a U-turn on supporting its firefighters in legal proceedings.

John Klaphake had to pay his own legal fees when he was prosecution last year after colliding with a car on his way to a house fire.

The Fire Service initially refused to pay for the court costs, saying he'd broken the organisation's rules.

But they now say they'll provide all staff and volunteers with legal support if they need it.

Klaphake welcomes the move.

He says firefighters, especially volunteers, will be grateful for the change, which will give them the protection they want.