[
A national media storm broke out last week when it was revealed that portable fire extinguishers were to be removed at two apartment blocks in Bournemouth.
The managers of one of the buildings – Avon House, a 10 storey block of flats – employed fire risk assessors who concluded that the extinguishers, which are situated in the hallways and landings, posed more of a risk than a safety feature, unless occupants were properly trained to use them. They were also concerned that if a fire broke out in an individual flat, residents might try to re-enter after getting hold of an extinguisher rather than escaping.
Dorset Fire and Rescue confirmed that they have audited the fire risk assessment at one of the buildings and could not stand in the way of the significant findings of a properly executed assessment. The managing agents of Avon House indicated that there were recommendations to remove portable fire extinguishers at several properties it managed for similar reasons.
“Fire extinguishers are an invaluable part of one’s overall fire safety plan and play a key role in protecting both life and property from fire,” said Graham Ellicott, chief executive of the FIA. “The Dorset Fire & Rescue Service suggests that it is dangerous for residents to leave their flats in order to fetch a fire extinguisher from a hallway and then return to the blaze. But what if the fire is in the hallway – an extinguisher could aid in creating an escape route. I feel very strongly that we should not remove equipment that could save someone’s life.”