Shopkeepers in Cumbria faced with a busy festive period are being asked by the County's Senior Fire Safety Manager to keep safe this Christmas. He advises that with the introduction of new staff, the increase of storage of combustible stock and the desire to display goods in prominent areas now is the time to review fire risk assessments and modify procedures in the event of a fire.
"In the past we have discovered fire exits blocked with Christmas goods or fire alarm points and firefighting equipment hidden behind decorations", said Group Manager Alan Mackrill.
"With the increase in the number of shoppers during the Christmas period fire safety is even more important," he said, "shops do get crowded at this time of year, and it is essential that all shopkeepers remain vigilant to ensure the safety of the public and employees.”
Temporary staff must be briefed on what action to take. "These people are often young students, with no previous work experience, so it is essential that they are given full instructions as to what to do should fire break out," added Mr Mackrill.
Coming up to the New Year, businesses may well need to take extra precautions, for example, to:-
•Review your fire risk assessment
•Review your fire safety arrangements in the event of fire.
•Do not stockpile goods beyond the capacity of storage areas.
•Make sure firefighting equipment is working and readily available.
•Make sure waste is stored securely to prevent deliberate ignition.
•Flammable waste should be cleared away and put in proper waste containers.
•Security measures should be put in place to deter intruders.
•Switch off non-essential electrical equipment.
•If maintenance is to be carried out, make sure contractors are supervised and safety procedures implemented if fire safety systems are isolated.
•Nominate a keyholder to attend the premises in case of emergency and make sure they can get to the premises if needed.
Free fire safety advice is available from any of the Fire Safety Centres listed below:-
Barrow: 01229 821363
Carlisle: 01228 521215
Kendal: 01539 722627
Workington: 01900 602543