Cleveland Fire Brigade is running virtual drop-in fire safety sessions for businesses and other organisations during the current crisis.
Weekly slots will be available where people can log-on and speak directly to a fire safety expert and get advice and support to comply with their legal obligations. There will be also the chance to give a video tour of your premises to pinpoint any danger areas.
Steve Johnson, Area Manager, Prevention, said: “Our number one priority is keeping our communities safe. In these difficult times, we are committed to supporting local businesses and other organisations to keep them in line with fire safety regulations. These virtual drop-in sessions allow local businesses and their designated ‘Responsible Persons’ to speak with our fire engineering team and use digital technology to show us any issues they may have within premises. This is an excellent opportunity for our local businesses to engage with us. I would strongly encourage local business owners and designated ‘Responsible Persons’ to take advantage of this, visit our website or use the weblinks we are advertising”.
Ten minute bookable slots will be available from 9am to 12.00noon each Friday from next week (Friday 24 April). To get your place and take advantage of this free service go to: fireengineeringhelpdesk@clevelandfire.gov.uk
All business owners have a legal responsibility to ensure people on the premises are safe. This means secure escape routes, unblocked exits, identifying hazards and training staff what to do in the event of an emergency.
It is a legal requirement to carry out a Fire Risk Assessment to ensure your premises are safe. Failure to comply with this and carry out any necessary improvements to reduce the risk of fire and keep people safe could result in Cleveland Fire Brigade closing the business.
Figures show that 86% of businesses that have a fire, simply never recover and literally go out of business.
For business safety advice during Coronavirus pandemic visit: www.clevelandfire.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Safer-Business-Coronavirus-Fire-Safety-Advice-A4-PDF.pdf
For more information, go to www.clevelandfire.gov.uk
