Fire safety in your home

We have all been shocked and saddened by the Grenfell tower block fire and our thoughts remain with all those affected.

We want to reassure you that the safety of our residents is of paramount priority and the Association wants to take this opportunity to tell you about our fire safety measures and also to inform you about the things that you can do to keep safe in your home.

Firstly, the Association does not own or manage any properties that are clad in the ACM (Aluminium Composite Material) that seems to have made a major contribution to the spread of the fire at Grenfell Tower, nor do we have any high-rise buildings or tower blocks.  However, we do have some multi-occupancy flats where we conduct regular fire risk assessments of any communal areas.  These are constructed to the same specification as our general needs houses.

In addition, our preventative measures include:

Ø  Gas safety checks on all properties undertaken annually

Ø  Smoke detectors fitted in all homes

Ø  Emergency lighting servicing with testing on a periodic basis

Ø  Electrical safety testing on all owned properties on a five yearly cycle

Ø  Regular checks of any communal areas

Fire safety is everyone’s responsibility

We believe that everyone has a responsibility for fire safety and expect all residents to comply with the following safety guidance:

Ø  Take care when cooking, most fires start in the kitchen

Ø  Never leave unattended candles burning

Ø  Make sure cigarettes are properly extinguished

Ø  Do not keep flammable materials in any communal store cupboards or keep bottle gas canisters in your home

Ø  Ensure that you check your smoke detectors frequently

Ø  Ensure that all external and communal areas are kept clear of rubbish and other items

Ø  Take responsibility for rubbish and make sure it is disposed of appropriately

Ø  Make sure mobility scooters, bicycles or other items are not left in communal areas if you live in a flat or somewhere that might hinder your exit from your home

Ø  Make sure you identify your means of escape in the event of a fire

If after reading this you still feel concerned about the fire risks in your own home or if you would like more advice, call 0300 1234 009 or email enquiries@midlandsrural.org.uk and we will do our best to help you.

You can also take a look at the government’s advice online:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/make-your-home-safe-from-fire

We will keep you updated with any further relevant information.