Page 8 - ISHA News Autumn 2019

FIRE RISK ASSESSMENTS
Communal Fire Risk Assessments have now commenced for the 2019-2020 programme across all of our properties and assessors will be inspecting communal areas.
In some instances, the assessors may ask to do a quick visual check of the inside of the flat. This is vital in helping us determine the strength of fire separation across various property types. The authorised consultants are from QFSM Ltd and the two assessors are:
Please be reminded of the risks associated with using a charcoal/gas barbecue on roof gardens or balconies. This poses a major fire risk and is against our policy, you may have seen recent letters sent to all residents warning against the practice. This includes smoking in these areas or in internal corridors since it increases the chances of ignition. We ask that you take fire precautions to ensure your family are safe in your home.
We recommend the following as good practice:
• Making sure the back-up battery in your smoke alarms are working. If you hear a bleeping sound every 30 seconds, the batteries probably need changing. The local Fire Brigade can conduct free home visits and can change alarms if contacted.
• Get portable electrical appliances tested (PAT test) e.g. Washing machines, fridge freezers, electric cookers that may cause fires if faulty (normally £1.50 per appliance for NICEIC electrician).
• Make sure not to over-load circuits by adding to too many extension plugs or appliances to the sockets.
• Keep all fire doors closed. Do not prop open communal doors to allow outside air flow as this is dangerous
and will increase fire/smoke spread across the block.
• Report to us of any holes or breaches you may see in your flat, riser cupboards or other
communal areas.
Andy Corby
Richard Willingham
Please be aware of your building fire evacuation advice. Instructions are normally printed on notices at your reception areas. Feel free to contact the compliance team for any issues or concerns regarding fire safety in your home at firemaintenance@isha.co.uk or on 0300 131 7300.
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