BSIF CEO Alan Murray honoured with SHE Awards 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award

by Featured NewsPeopleSafety

Award recognises decades of service to UK safety and health sector

The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has reported that its Chief Executive Officer, Alan Murray, has been presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Safety & Health Excellence (SHE) Awards 2025.

The award was given during a ceremony at the VOX Conference Centre in Birmingham attended by over 700 industry professionals.

According to BSIF, the award recognises Murray’s decades-long contribution to the UK’s safety and health sector and comes ahead of his planned retirement later in the year.

Murray will take up the position of Executive Chairman of BSIF following his departure as CEO.

Alan Murray’s leadership and career history

Murray joined BSIF in 2014 following a career in senior commercial roles in the safety and health sector.

He previously worked with Scott Safety and Kimberly-Clark, where he supported the development of workwear and protective clothing alongside existing paper-based products.

Earlier in his career, Murray held a leadership role at the London Rubber Company, helping develop hand protection products under the Durex and Marigold brands.

BSIF stated that Murray’s leadership had supported membership growth and increased influence for the organisation across the UK.

Murray’s contribution during the COVID-19 pandemic

BSIF noted Murray’s involvement in managing safety equipment supply standards during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Under his leadership, the Federation supported the use of the Registered Safety Supplier Scheme to help ensure that personal protective equipment (PPE) supplied to workers met appropriate UK compliance requirements.

Murray also served as President of the European Safety Federation from 2019, completing two terms, and was named Honorary President of Safety Groups UK in 2024.

Industry response and future role

Chairman of BSIF, John Gill, commended Murray for his leadership and lasting impact on the organisation and the broader industry.

Gill said: “Alan has been instrumental in guiding BSIF to the influential position it holds today.

His unwavering commitment to safety, integrity, and standards has ensured our members not only thrive but serve the nation with products and services that truly protect lives.”

He added: “The Lifetime Achievement Award is a fitting recognition of a career dedicated to making the UK one of the safest places to work in the world.”

BSIF stated that the Federation and its members welcomed Murray’s transition into the role of Executive Chairman and expressed appreciation for his continued guidance.

BSIF CEO Alan Murray honoured with SHE Awards 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award: Summary

Alan Murray, CEO of the British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF), has received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 Safety & Health Excellence (SHE) Awards.

The event was held at the VOX Conference Centre in Birmingham with over 700 attendees.

Murray is set to retire later this year and will become Executive Chairman of BSIF.

His career includes roles at Scott Safety, Kimberly-Clark, and London Rubber Company.

He joined BSIF in 2014.

During his tenure, BSIF implemented measures to ensure PPE compliance during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Murray served two terms as President of the European Safety Federation and was appointed Honorary President of Safety Groups UK in 2024.

BSIF Chairman John Gill highlighted Murray’s role in expanding the Federation’s influence.

The organisation stated it looks forward to Murray’s continued involvement in his upcoming position.

Charterhouse to acquire ESTYA, a French fire safety and security systems provider

by Featured NewsSafety

Charterhouse announces acquisition of ESTYA

Charterhouse Capital Partners has agreed to acquire ESTYA, a French company specialising in electronic fire safety and security systems.

The private equity firm will invest alongside ESTYA’s management, who will reinvest in the business, and Chequers Capital, which will retain a stake in the company after first investing in 2021.

The acquisition is subject to regulatory approval.

ESTYA’s operations and growth

ESTYA was founded in 1974 and provides electronic fire detection, smoke extraction, compartmentation, gas detection, and electric security solutions.

The Paris-headquartered company generates approximately €120 million in revenue and operates 15 agencies across France.

Since 2021, ESTYA has tripled in size and completed seven acquisitions.

Charterhouse’s investment strategy

Charterhouse focuses on mid-market investments across Europe, with a focus on the services and healthcare sectors.

The firm targets businesses with strong market positions and steady earnings growth.

Other recent investments by Charterhouse include Metrodora, a Spanish healthcare education group, Skin Tech Pharma Group, a B2B medical aesthetics company, and Two Circles, a technology-driven services and software business in the sports and entertainment sector.

Leadership perspectives on the acquisition

Cédric Barthélemy, Partner at Charterhouse, said: “We have been following ESTYA’s journey closely for some time and have been truly impressed by what Ludovic and his team have achieved to date.

“As a fast-growth, high quality and resilient mid-market company, ESTYA is exactly the type of business that we like to back at Charterhouse.”

Ludovic Goëta, CEO and Founder of ESTYA, said: “At ESTYA, we are focused on providing mission-critical services to our customers across the electronic fire safety and security system value chain.

“We have grown strongly in recent years and are confident that Charterhouse is the right partner, alongside Chequers Capital, to take us into our next stage of growth across France and into new European markets.”

Aurélien Klein, Managing Partner at Chequers Capital, added: “We are pleased to have found in Charterhouse the right partners to continue Chequers Capital’s investment in ESTYA.

ESTYA has grown significantly since we first invested in 2021 and we look forward to working hand in hand with Charterhouse to grow the business further in France and internationally.”

Charterhouse to acquire ESTYA, a French fire safety and security systems provider: Summary

Charterhouse Capital Partners has agreed to acquire ESTYA, a French provider of electronic fire safety and security systems.

The investment is made in partnership with ESTYA’s management and Chequers Capital, which will retain a shareholding following its initial investment in 2021.

The transaction is pending regulatory approval. ESTYA was founded in 1974 and operates 15 agencies in France, generating around €120 million in revenue.

The company has expanded through acquisitions, having tripled in size since 2021.

Charterhouse targets mid-market companies in Europe, focusing on services and healthcare.

Its investment in ESTYA aligns with its strategy of backing businesses with stable earnings and growth potential.

Charterhouse Partner Cédric Barthélemy, ESTYA CEO Ludovic Goëta, and Chequers Capital Managing Partner Aurélien Klein commented on the partnership, highlighting plans for continued growth in France and other European markets.

Residents’ perceptions of fire safety in high-rise buildings: Research findings

by Breaking NewsBuilding ManagementResearchSafety

Study examines fire safety concerns among high-rise residents

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has published findings from a qualitative study on fire safety perceptions among high-rise building residents in England.

The research, commissioned following the Grenfell Tower fire, aims to understand how residents feel about fire safety and what influences their perceptions.

The study, part of the Building Safety Programme, involved nine focus groups with 50 participants from different housing tenures and regions.

It identified key concerns, including fears over evacuation safety, trust in building management, and the effectiveness of fire safety measures.

The findings will contribute to ongoing policy discussions and potential safety reforms.

Trust in building design and management affects fire safety perceptions

Residents’ confidence in fire safety was linked to trust in those responsible for building design, construction, and management.

Some participants expressed concerns that cost-cutting measures take precedence over safety.

Social housing tenants were more likely to feel reassured by their landlords’ fire safety actions, while private renters reported uncertainty over who was responsible for fire safety measures.

Concerns were also raised over building management’s lack of engagement with residents on safety protocols.

Evacuation challenges and fears among high-rise residents

Participants highlighted specific concerns about their ability to evacuate in the event of a fire, particularly those living on higher floors or in older buildings.

Residents with mobility impairments or cognitive conditions were particularly worried about their safety.

Some residents lacked confidence in the fire safety equipment within their buildings and were unsure about proper evacuation procedures.

The research indicated a demand for clearer communication on fire alarms, evacuation strategies, and provisions for vulnerable residents.

Proposals for improving fire safety awareness and engagement

The study explored several proposals to enhance fire safety awareness and resident engagement.

Participants supported the idea of information packs detailing their building’s fire safety features and evacuation procedures.

They also expressed interest in fire safety training courses to improve preparedness.

Residents favoured increased consultation on building improvements but were reluctant to take on decision-making roles due to their lack of technical expertise.

Many supported stronger regulation of short-term subletting, viewing it as a potential fire risk.

Residents’ perceptions of fire safety in high-rise buildings: Summary

A study commissioned by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has examined how residents of high-rise buildings in England perceive fire safety.

The research involved focus groups with 50 participants from various housing tenures and regions.

Key concerns included evacuation challenges, uncertainty about fire safety equipment, and a lack of trust in building management.

Residents of older buildings or those on higher floors were particularly worried about their ability to escape in the event of a fire.

Social housing tenants generally felt more reassured by their landlords’ safety measures, while private renters expressed confusion over fire safety responsibilities.

Participants supported the introduction of information packs and training courses to improve awareness and preparedness.

The findings will inform ongoing discussions about high-rise fire safety policies, with a focus on enhancing communication, resident engagement, and regulatory measures.

Fire-resistant honeycomb panels launched by Viva for safer buildings

by Building ManagementConstructionFeatured NewsPassiveProducts

Viva announces fire-resistant FR A1-rated aluminium panels

Viva has introduced its FR A1-rated Honeycomb Panels, designed to enhance fire safety in architecture.

The company states that these panels meet the highest fire resistance standards under European Standard EN 13501-1, ensuring non-combustibility and zero contribution to fire, smoke, or toxic emissions.

According to Viva, the panels are engineered for safety-critical environments, including high-rise buildings, airports, commercial complexes, hospitals, and educational institutions.

The honeycomb core structure provides durability while maintaining a lightweight profile, making it suitable for modern construction.

Compliance with international fire safety standards

The FR A1 rating indicates that the panels meet stringent fire safety requirements.

This classification, under the European Standard EN 13501-1, ensures that the panels do not contribute to fire, smoke, or toxic emissions.

Viva states that the panels have undergone rigorous testing to confirm their performance in extreme fire conditions.

These safety features align with international fire safety regulations, addressing the growing need for fire-resistant materials in construction projects worldwide.

The company highlights that the panels can be integrated into various architectural applications without compromising safety.

Structural benefits and design flexibility

Viva’s honeycomb panels are designed to balance fire resistance with structural integrity.

The honeycomb core allows for strength while keeping the material lightweight, making it easier to install and transport.

The company states that this construction method enhances durability and ensures long-term performance.

Additionally, the panels come with customisable finishes, enabling their use in different architectural designs.

The manufacturer notes that this flexibility allows architects and developers to incorporate fire-resistant materials without aesthetic limitations.

Industry perspectives on fire safety solutions

Nitin Jain, Director of Viva Composite Panel Pvt. Ltd., commented on the product’s development: “At Viva, safety, innovation, and sustainability drive our product development.

“Our FR A1-rated Honeycomb Panels are a testament to this commitment, offering architects and developers an unparalleled solution for fire-safe construction.”

With increasing fire safety regulations in urban developments, manufacturers of building materials are introducing solutions that meet strict compliance requirements.

Viva’s new panels are positioned as a response to this demand, providing an option that integrates fire resistance, durability, and environmental considerations.

Fire-resistant honeycomb panels launched by Viva for safer buildings: Summary

Viva has introduced its FR A1-rated Honeycomb Panels, which meet the highest fire resistance classification under the European Standard EN 13501-1.

Designed for use in high-rise buildings, airports, commercial complexes, hospitals, and educational institutions, they provide a fire-safe construction option without compromising design flexibility.

The honeycomb core structure aims to ensure durability while keeping the panels lightweight, making them suitable for various architectural applications.

Viva states that the panels have undergone rigorous testing to confirm their performance under extreme fire conditions.

The company highlights their compliance with international safety regulations, addressing the demand for fire-resistant materials in modern construction.

Nitin Jain, Director of Viva Composite Panel Pvt. Ltd., said the panels reflect the company’s commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability.

Institution of Fire Engineers addresses concerns over Tri Fire EWS1 assessments

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsFire EngineeringSafety

IFE issues statement on EWS1 concerns

The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) has issued a statement regarding public concerns over fire safety assessments conducted by Adam Kiziak, director of Tri Fire Ltd.

The IFE said it recognised the challenges faced by buyers, sellers, and mortgage lenders when the quality of EWS1 certificates is questioned.

It has urged Tri Fire to address the concerns raised by consumers and to engage with mortgage lenders.

The statement follows reports that major lenders, including NatWest and Nationwide, have withdrawn mortgage offers for properties with EWS1 assessments issued by Tri Fire.

IFE confirms suspension of Kiziak’s membership

The IFE confirmed that it suspended Kiziak’s membership and his professional registration with the Engineering Council in August 2024.

The decision followed an investigation into complaints regarding his conduct in relation to EWS1 assessments.

The findings of this investigation were published in November 2024, detailing breaches of the IFE’s code of conduct.

The IFE stated: “We can also confirm that Mr Kiziak’s membership and registration remain suspended indefinitely while further recent complaints are being investigated, including those being reported in the media.”

Allegations of misuse of credentials

The controversy escalated after fire engineer Awwal Salisu alleged that his credentials had been used without his permission to sign off EWS1 forms.

Salisu told the BBC that he had agreed to assess up to 100 buildings for Tri Fire but found that many had insufficient information to justify certification.

He later discovered that safety certificates had been issued in his name for buildings he had not reviewed.

“I am very angry about it,” Salisu said. “I’ve had sleepless nights – my reputation is at stake.”

Public urged to verify fire engineers’ credentials

The IFE has reiterated its commitment to maintaining professional standards and advised the public to verify fire engineers’ credentials through its online directory.

A spokesperson for the organisation stated: “A public directory is available on the website that provides details of IFE registrants and specifies their areas of expertise.

“We encourage anybody seeking the services of a fire engineer to make use of the directory and ensure that the stated fire engineering specialisms match the needs of the client.”

The IFE also expects its members to undertake work only within their expertise and to have the appropriate insurance coverage.

Institution of Fire Engineers addresses concerns over Tri Fire EWS1 assessments: Summary

The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) has addressed public concerns regarding fire safety assessments carried out by Adam Kiziak, director of Tri Fire Ltd.

The IFE confirmed that Kiziak’s membership and Engineering Council registration were suspended in August 2024 following an investigation into EWS1 assessments.

This decision remains in place while further complaints are being examined.

Mortgage lenders, including NatWest and Nationwide, have withdrawn applications linked to Tri Fire’s EWS1 certificates.

Fire engineer Awwal Salisu has alleged that his credentials were used without permission to approve safety certificates for buildings he had not assessed.

The IFE has advised property buyers and businesses to verify fire engineers’ credentials using its online directory.

It has also urged Tri Fire to engage with consumers and mortgage lenders to resolve concerns.

Istanbul official mandates closure of hotels without safety certificates in Turkey

by Featured NewsSafety

Istanbul governor initiates hotel safety reviews in Turkey

According to Duvar English, Istanbul Governor Davut Gül announced on 30 January 2025 that a process had begun for reviewing hotel safety in Turkey.

The announcement follows a fire at a ski resort causing 79 fatalities.

The governor noted issues with hotel licensing and lodging certificates.

Hotel licence and certificate requirements

The process will close facilities lacking a licence or lodging certificate from the Culture and Tourism Ministry.

Istanbul Governor Davut Gül stated: “As of Monday, we will have closed all accommodation facilities that either lack a license or, despite having one, do not possess a basic lodging certificate from the Culture and Tourism Ministry.”

Officials plan to close facilities by week’s end.

Fire safety measures and building inspections

A fire in Bolu, which caused 78 deaths, led to a review of fire safety measures.

Authorities inspected institutions and buildings needing oversight after the incident.

An investigation at the Grand Kartal Hotel revealed fire protection issues.

Public safety coordination and district measures

Municipal and fire department units are working with district governors to enforce safety.

The process follows a set timeline for inspections in the affected areas.

Local units will coordinate to ensure public safety.

Istanbul governor initiates hotel safety reviews in Turkey: Summary

According to Duvar English, Istanbul Governor Davut Gül announced on 30 January 2025 that a process had begun for reviewing hotel safety in Turkey.

The review follows a fire at a ski resort causing 79 fatalities.

Facilities lacking a licence or lodging certificate from the Culture and Tourism Ministry will be closed.

The governor stated: “As of Monday, we will have closed all accommodation facilities that either lack a license or, despite having one, do not possess a basic lodging certificate from the Culture and Tourism Ministry.”

Officials plan to close facilities by week’s end.

The review includes inspections of fire safety measures after the Bolu incident causing 78 deaths.

Municipal and fire department units are working with district governors to enforce safety.

An investigation at the Grand Kartal Hotel revealed fire protection issues.

The measures are scheduled within a timeline to ensure public safety.

All actions follow government directives.

SHIELD backed by University of Strathclyde

by Featured NewsPeopleSafety

The University of Strathclyde is encouraging ship operators, safety professionals and accident investigators to use the Safety Human Incident & Error Learning Database (SHIELD) to better understand the underlying root cause of human-factor related issues in maritime incidents.

SHIELD, developed by a consortium of partners across the aviation and maritime spheres as part of the European Union’s SAFEMODE project, was launched in 2022 and is now being used by major cruise lines, a UK-based ferry operator, safety agencies in Europe and Asia and a number of accident investigation boards.

University of Strathclyde Maritime Human Factors Centre, Head, Dr Rafet Emek Kurt’s statement

Dr Rafet Emek Kurt, the Head of the University’s Maritime Human Factors Centre spoke on his belief that more data is required if SHIELD is to have a material benefit on future maritime safety and policy.

Dr Kurt said: “Human factors have long been recognized as a critical element in shipping safety, yet whenever there is an accident, in reaction to the lessons learnt we continue to overload the seafarer with more safety procedures, more checklists, more training.

“This is largely ineffective in reducing human factor incidents and increases the cognitive load on the seafarer. We need to address the root cause of an accident to have any meaningful impact.”

Kurt said that the SHIELD platform provides invaluable feedback to shipmanagers, policymakers, accident investigators and ship and system builders to better quantify the human components in safety risk models, resulting in positive changes in ship design, operations and rules.

“So far, in the absence of high-quality data, the maritime sector has failed to include human factor considerations in critical decision making. As a result, envisaged safety improvements from the sector have been ineffective, with accidents continuing to occur at a steady rate after.”

SHIELD’S impact

Dr Kurt emphasised that through industry-wide collaboration and use of SHIELD, stakeholders can better understand underlying human factor contributors. The data can also serve to develop new accident and risk models as well as tailor research to address any shortcomings.

The SHIELD taxonomy assesses input data against a range of extenuating factors affecting human performance, such as workload, situation awareness, stress and fatigue, human system interfaces, and teamwork.

But, it goes further by providing insight into how organisational and leadership structures, strategies, cultures and socioeconomics play a part.

“SHIELD represents a paradigm shift in how the shipping industry approaches safety,” said Kurt. “By empowering shipowners to deeply analyse their accident data, we can move beyond the traditional ‘human error’ narrative and uncover the true drivers of incidents. This knowledge is invaluable in creating a safer, more efficient, and more sustainable maritime sector.”

The University of Strathclyde support use of SHIELD: Summary

Dr Rafet Emek Kurt, the Head of the University’s Maritime Human Factors Centre has voiced support for the Safety Human Incident & Error Learning Database (SHIELD).

Dr Kurt said SHIELD represents a paradigm shift in how the shipping industry approaches safety.

Violence against emergency services in Germany remains a concern

by Featured NewsSafety

Bundestag reviews legal measures following increasing attacks

Violence against emergency responders in Germany continues to be a pressing issue.

According to INTERSCHUTZ, firefighters and paramedics across the country, including in Hanover, faced aggression and physical attacks during New Year’s Eve celebrations.

The problem has been ongoing for years, affecting both professional and volunteer emergency personnel.

A study by Ruhr University Bochum in collaboration with the North Rhine-Westphalia Accident Insurance Fund identified hitting, pushing, and spitting as the most common forms of aggression against emergency workers.

In response to the issue, the Bundestag discussed tightening laws to address such offences.

The proposal has been sent to the relevant committee for further revision.

Survey highlights high levels of violence

A recent survey conducted by the Institute for Work and Health of the DGUV (IAG) confirmed that aggression towards emergency responders remains widespread.

The survey, which included over 7,500 participants, showed that nearly half of firefighters had experienced verbal abuse, threats, or physical attacks while on duty in the past two years.

According to Karl-Heinz Banse, President of the German Firefighters’ Association (DFV), the findings are concerning: “It cannot and must not be the case that almost half of the firefighters surveyed have been insulted, threatened or prevented from working during an operation in the last two years.”

He emphasised the need for support from both society and policymakers.

Professional firefighters report higher attack rates

The survey found that among volunteer firefighters, over 50% reported experiencing violence, a figure consistent with 2023 findings. The proportion was similar among plant firefighters.

However, professional firefighters faced the highest risk, with 75% reporting attacks over the past two years.

More than 90% of those affected experienced verbal abuse and insults.

The DFV has revised its previous survey questionnaire to ensure it accurately reflects the concerns of professional firefighters.

Representatives from several fire brigades, alongside trade unions Verdi and Komba, participated in the development of the updated survey.

Calls for enhanced protection measures

In response to the increasing violence, Christoph Bahlmann, head of the Hanover fire service, announced plans for additional protective measures.

He proposed equipping emergency personnel with bodycams and fitting vehicles with dashcams to provide forensic evidence in the event of attacks.

He also suggested that smaller operations be conducted with police escorts when necessary.

The urgency of these measures was reinforced by incidents over New Year’s Eve, during which multiple attacks on emergency responders were reported in Hanover and other regions.

Violence against emergency services in Germany remains a concern: Summary

INTERSCHUTZ has reported that violence against emergency responders in Germany continues, with firefighters and paramedics frequently facing aggression while on duty.

A recent survey by the Institute for Work and Health of the DGUV found that nearly half of firefighters had been verbally abused, threatened, or physically attacked in the past two years.

Among professional firefighters, the figure rose to 75%.

The Bundestag has reviewed proposed legal changes to address the issue, while fire service officials have called for additional protective measures such as bodycams and police escorts for emergency personnel.

FSD Hong Kong presents year-end review

by Featured News

The Fire Services Department (FSD) in Hong Kong said it received 37,828 fire calls in 2024, representing an increase of 4.8% over 2023. In addition, there were 5,222 damaging fires, a rise of 154 cases over 2023.

In all, 95.6% of the building fire calls were responded to within the graded response time.

Director of Services, Andy Yeung

At a media session presenting the FSD’s 2024 Year-end Review, Director of Fire Services Andy Yeung recalled that a No. 3 alarm fire that broke out at New Lucky House in Jordan on April 10 led to multiple casualties.

He pointed out that the department subsequently formed a dedicated team to investigate the causes of the incident and factors which led to it.

Separately, a No. 4 alarm fire broke out at a construction site on Hung Nga Road in Hung Shui Kiu on April 9. Mr Yeung noted that during this operation, the department used indoor locating equipment for the first time.

This enabled firefighters to monitor the real-time locations and safety conditions of frontline staff and show the locations of those awaiting rescue, so that the search time could be significantly reduced, while the safety of frontline staff could be enhanced.

Findings of the year-end review

Mr Yeung also reported that the FSD conducted 460,400 inspections last year and issued 17,775 Fire Hazard Abatement Notices, with 4,967 cases brought to prosecution.

In response to the tragic fire at New Lucky House, he said the department proactively conducted, under a risk-based principle, about 8,200 inspections of some 1,000 old composite buildings with relatively higher fire risk.

A total of 8,661 notices were issued and over half of the cases were related to smoke stop door irregularities.

One-stop Co-ordination Office

Regarding the certification and acceptance inspection of fire service installation and equipment, the FSD plans to deploy internal resources and establish the One-stop Co-ordination Office for New Fire Protection Facilities Acceptance in March 2025.

Mr Yeung hopes that upon establishment of the co-ordination office, the overall time required for acceptance inspections could be reduced to within 35 working days in respect of average-scale regular projects.

To enhance the fire safety of old buildings, the department has completed the amendment to the Fire Safety (Buildings) Ordinance which came into force on December 13 last year.

The main purpose of the amendment is to introduce the defaulted works mechanism, increase penalties as well as assist and drive target buildings to comply with the requirements, so that the fire safety standards of such buildings are enhanced to meet modern fire protection requirements, Mr Yeung explained.

Increase of 4.8% fire calls in 2024 say FSD Hong Kong: Summary

The Fire Services Department in Hong Kong have discussed the findings of their year-end review. The Director of Fire Services say that the amendment is introduced so that the fire safety standards of such buildings are enhanced to meet modern fire protection requirements.

Warwickshire Fire & Rescue support Fire Kills campaign

by Featured NewsFire Detection

Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service is encouraging everyone to make sure they have enough smoke alarms in the home and that they work, noting that it only takes a few seconds and could save lives.

For this reason, the Fire Kills campaign and Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service are encouraging people in Warwickshire to have a think about the smoke alarms in their home.

Portfolio Holder, Fire & Rescue and Community Safety, Councillor Andy Crump’s statement

Councillor Andy Crump, Portfolio Holder for Fire & Rescue and Community Safety, said: “We must all make sure that we have enough smoke alarms to cover our homes and test them regularly, at least once a month.

“If you don’t have enough or they’re not in the right place, you might not be alerted in time. You should have at least one smoke alarm on each level of your home, ideally placed on the ceiling in hallways or landings.

“Placing them next to sleeping areas and in rooms where electrical items are present can also give you another means of warning.

“No matter how many smoke alarms you have, you should test them on a regular basis to make sure they are working properly. In the event of fire, having working smoke alarms gives you time to get out, stay out and call 999.”

Top tips

To keep people safe, here are some top smoke alarm tips from Warwickshire Fire and Rescue:

  • Test smoke alarms regularly, at least once a month
  • Make sure smoke alarms are fitted on every level of the home
  • Whatever happens, never remove the batteries in smoke alarms unless replacing them. Some require new batteries every year.
  • Plan and practise an escape route and make sure that everyone in your home knows it
  • In the event of a fire, get out, stay out and call 999
  • Test smoke alarms for those people who are unable to test their own

The Fire Kills campaign has been backed by Warwickshire Fire & Rescue Service: Summary

Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service are encouraging support for the Fire Kills campaign, designed to raise awareness of smoke alarms in homes and why everyone needs to have one.