The Increasing Importance of the Role of Portable Fire Extinguishers in Domestic Dwellings

26 May, 2021

 
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Fire extinguishers are an imperative part of a property’s fire safety measures – you don’t need us to tell you that.

For business owners across the country, fire extinguishers have provided a dependable form of protection for their premises, and the people who work there.

But, increasingly, the importance of installing portable fire extinguishers in domestic dwellings has also been recognised.

 

More and more, official bodies are recommending that homeowners consider installing them into their homes, in order to better protect it against the risk of a fire outbreak. One example of an organisation that is pushing for more widespread use of fire extinguishers is the Independent Fire Engineering and Distributors Association (IFEDA), which funded a recent report on their potential for private dwellings and HMOs.

The aim of the report was to provide “an evidence-based assessment of the role of portable fire extinguishers in dwellings”. Interestingly, the report discourages the popular belief that members of the public (without the recommended level of training) should not be allowed to handle fire extinguishers.

However, this report explores their potential usage as a form of ‘First Aid’ response, i.e., limiting the spread of the fire, in the period of time before the professionals can arrive and deal with the situation.

In fact, one critical observation in the report was that as much as 80% of house fires that were tackled with fire extinguishers, used by ordinary and un-trained members of the public, were extinguished successfully.

This rate of success is especially important when we consider the alarming statistic (as provided by the report) that the standard response time of a UK Fire and Rescue Service has risen by around 50% in 25 years alone.

If you have any further questions about fire safety, or if you want our advice on how you can help keep your home safe against the risk of fire, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.

You can also read the full IFEDA report here.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Our Most Popular Questions

Do I need a fire risk assessment?

Yes, under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, it is a legal requirement for businesses to conduct a fire risk assessment. This obligation was reinforced by the Fire Safety Act that came into force on 1st October 2023, which mandates all businesses, regardless of size or industry, to maintain an up-to-date fire risk assessment.

How often should you update a fire risk assessment?

Fire risk assessments should be reviewed regularly to ensure they remain current and effective. While there is no specific timeframe mandated by law, it is advisable to review the assessment annually or whenever there are significant changes to the premises, such as alterations to the building structure, changes in occupancy, or the introduction of new equipment.

What is included in a fire risk assessment?

A comprehensive fire risk assessment typically includes:

  • Identifying potential fire hazards.
  • Determining who may be at risk.
  • Evaluating the adequacy of existing fire safety measures.
  • Recording findings and implementing necessary improvements.
  • Regularly reviewing and updating the assessment.
  • This process ensures that all fire risks are identified and managed appropriately.

What are the fire safety regulations for businesses?

As of 1st October 2023, new fire safety legislation requires all businesses to:

  • Maintain a current fire risk assessment.
  • Implement necessary fire safety arrangements.
  • Ensure compliance with updated regulations, which now encompass businesses of all sizes and industries.

These measures are designed to enhance fire safety standards across all sectors.

What needs PAT testing?

Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is required for all electrical equipment and appliances that have the potential to cause injury. This includes items such as computers, printers, kettles, and other portable devices including testing detachable power leads separately. used within the workplace. Regular PAT testing helps ensure the safety and integrity of electrical appliances.

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