Over 80% of all casualties occur as a result of fires in the home. The majority of these fires are accidental and could have been prevented by following a few simple measures which help to reduce the risks.
Prevention is the key to reducing the tragedies and hardships caused by fire. Stopping fires from starting requires the community and the fire service to work together to deliver safer communities.
Safety at Home
It’s important that fire risks are minimised in your home, and that you reduce or eliminate any hazards that might cause a fire in your home.
Did you know…?
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You’re twice as likely to die in a fire if you don’t have a smoke alarm that works.
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90 people die each year because the battery in their smoke alarm was flat or missing.
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Over half of home fires are caused by cooking accidents.
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More than five fires a day are started by candles.
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Every three days someone dies from a fire caused by a cigarette.
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Faulty electrics (appliances, wiring and overloaded sockets) cause around 7,000 house fires across the country every year.
The West Midlands Fire Service has produced a Fire safety in the Home leaflet to help you.
Fire Safety Advice for Businesses
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 consolidates nearly all fire safety legislation. Businesses are now responsible for fire safety on their premises. This became law on 1st October 2006.
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order affects any place, in particular workplaces, and you are required to carry out a mandatory fire risk assessment. There more information on the WMFS website.
The Government has also issued a series of national guidance booklets to assist employers and Responsible Persons in meeting their legal responsibilities. To view or download the guidance best suited to your particular premises please click on the appropriate link below:
West Midlands Arson Task Force (WMRART)
The West Midlands Arson Task Force is a partnership between the West Midlands Fire Service & West Midlands Police. The Task Force operate by carrying out detailed arson investigations and analysis in the region. It agrees policies and undertake projects with the partners aiming to improve detection and reduce arson throughout the West Midlands.
The West Midlands Fire Service website provides safety advice for businesses ranging from fire safety legislation to Commercial Training and Licensing.
