As rising costs continue to affect households and businesses, West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS) is urging firms not to cut corners on fire safety. We are supporting the National Fire Chiefs Council’s #StayFireSafe campaign, to remind business and building owners of their fire safety responsibilities and to ensure staff, customers and visitors have information to help prevent and respond to fires in the workplace. The call comes amid concerns that rising costs could mean business owners turn to alternative ways of heating and lighting premises in a bid to cut bills. WMFS is advising local businesses to review their fire risk assessment especially if any changes are made to their premises or working practices. Group Manager Steve Ball, who leads WMFS’s protection work, said: “The increasing price of goods, energy and transportation is having a significant impact across not just our region, but the entire country. “We know many local businesses are facing higher operating costs, from fuel to utilities and raw materials. This, coupled with other financial pressures, could mean they look to change how they use their premises. “Reducing staffing, leaving buildings unoccupied, changing where or how stock is stored, and how premises are heated or lit all have the potential to increase the risk of fire. This is why it’s important to review your Fire Risk Assessment and put in place suitable measures to ensure it reflects any changes.”
Even during these challenging times, people responsible for buildings must meet their legal requirements for fire safety. Here are some pointers: For further guidance and valuable information for businesses and responsible persons, please visit our fire safety resources for businesses page. If you’re interested in cost-of-living safety tips for the home, visit our cost-of-living page.