A group of Fire Safety Inspectors from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service (HIWFRS) have been visiting hotels and guest houses across the Isle of Wight over the past couple of weeks to help them prepare for the busy holiday season ahead.
The Inspectors have been working in partnership with business owners to ensure all premises they visit meet the latest fire safety regulations and that their risk assessments are all up to date, to ensure the safety of holidaymakers and staff.
Failing to get fire safety right at a business premises can put both employees and customers at risk and cost businesses in countless other ways, so it’s crucial that Responsible Persons (RPs) get this right.
HIWFRS Station Manager for Protection Simon Whelan said:
“The holiday season is a particularly busy time on the island and we want businesses to know that we are here to support them and offer advice and guidance so they can ensure their hotels and guest houses are as safe as possible for their customers.
“Fire can have a devastating impact on businesses so it’s vital that risk assessments are regularly reviewed and updated to increase fire safety.
“Our dedicated team of Fire Safety Inspectors work closely with all business owners/RPs to help them achieve and maintain compliance with fire safety legislation. We are an empowering organisation that will always be happy to assist business owners to do the right thing.”
Since the introduction of new fire safety legislation came into force at the end of last year, all businesses regardless of size must record their fire risk assessment and fire safety arrangements in full, so these rules also apply to owners of holiday lets.
Top tips for keeping your guest accommodation safe from fire:
- You should carry out a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment of your premises – don’t forget to record your findings.
- Put adequate fire safety measures in place – consider escape routes, check fire alarm systems regularly to ensure they’re working and consider signage to guide your guests to exits in the event of an emergency.
- Ensure your employees, guests and visitors are aware of what to do in the event of a fire and that they understand the fire safety measures in place within your premises.
- Review your fire risk assessment and fire safety measures regularly.
Access the full Government guidance.
If you’re off on holiday, don’t forget to check that the hotel, guest house or rental has adequate fire safety measures and carbon monoxide detectors in place before you book.
Find out more about the latest regulations on the HIWFRS website.