We strongly encourage anyone spotting any breach of practice to either engage with the premises manager or to notify the local fire brigade. Here are some examples and the cost to rectify the issues which have been sent in to Firescout.
" " Many systems have a mute or hush button to silence a sounding alarm, but it's important that this is only used as a way to stop the noise while both the cause is being investigated and remedied and the panel reset. Leaving a panel in a hushed state could cause further alerts to be missed.
" " When smoke, carbon monoxide or heat alarms sound, there is a reason. If there is no fire or smoke setting it off, then it may need replacing or the battery changing. It's important you never leave the alarm unusable as they are often your first alert to a fire, especially while you sleep.
" " All fire safety devices should be used as the instructions and regulations state. A common problem in fire safety is not the lack of equipment, but the misuse of them. Be strict when it comes to maintaining, servicing and using all of them.
" " As businesses grow, space can become limited, sometimes leading in fire safety being neglected. Fire exits should always be easily accessible with clear walkways and doorways that aren't blocked or locked.
" " As with fire doors, fire resisting loft hatches should always be placed back in their original position after use. They are there to stop fire spreading to new locations. When a fire can escape through to the roof, the fire and smoke can quickly spread throughout the building, causing life threatening danger to occupants.
" " Keeping any device maintained, fire safety specific or otherwise, is crucial to avoid accidents and fire hazards. The build of residues inside vents, such as grease and dust, combined with heat, can cause serious, life-threatening fires. Service should be carried out on these devices, and they shouldn't be used again until they are back in their full working state.
" " When escape routes are often used to store items, an alternative storage area should be provided. Fire extinguishers should be placed in the location they appear in your fire safety logbook and serviced regularly to make sure they are usable.
" " Fire escape routes should be kept clear at all times, especially when it comes to combustible items, to minimize hazards to evacuees and to minimize the spread of fire. If there is evidence of smokers using an area they shouldn't, you can consider installing a cigarette smoke detector also.
" " Dust covers can be handy while maintenance and building work is being carried out that can cause dust and trigger or clog the alarm sesnsors, but these should be removed immediately when the work is finished. Regular smoke alarm tests should also be carried out by an appointed member of staff.
" " Unextinguished cigarette butts are a common cause of fiires. Even with fire retardant surfaces, over time the risk is increased when continually exposed to heat. If you suspect people are smoking in unofficial smoke areas, consider installing a cigarette smoke detector and applicable signage.