SUMMER 2022 FIRE SAFETY Log on to fire safety advice Refreshed West Midlands Fire Service website aims to keep you in the know and support economic growth West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS) has revamped its website to be the go to platform for local businesses seeking advice and guidance on fire-related matters. Its operational personnel aim to support economic growth in the region through services such as Safe and Strong visits, to help businesses keep their staff, visitors and buildings safe from fire. Through its protection activities, WMFS also ensures commercial premises comply with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, and offers a range of training courses covering fire marshal training, fire risk assessments, use of fire extinguishers, and more. Its fire engineering team deals with complex Sprinklers can fire-safety matters for proposed new be a vital part of a buildings and WMFS plays a key role in businesss fire safety supporting better regulation through its measures. Find out more involvement with Primary Authority. about National Sprinkler Week, organised by the National Fire Chiefs Council in May. Tips for using heaters safely n Ensure heaters are well maintained and in good working order n Never install, repair or service appliances yourself. Make sure anyone who does is registered with Gas Safe Register, the Heating Equipment Testing and Approval Scheme (solid fuel appliances), or the Oil Firing Technical Association n Get old heaters tested by a qualified electrician or buy a new one n Where possible, secure heaters to a wall to stop them falling over, or fit wall-mounted heaters n Keep heaters away from clothes, curtains and furniture, and never use them for drying clothes n Sit at least one metre away from a heater n Before moving a heater, turn it off and allow it to cool. Fire risk assessments are a legal requirement for workplaces, and while the WMFS cant complete these for you, it can provide advice and guidance, including who needs to do an assessment, what it involves, and the penalties for failing to do one. Author credit: Chris Jeffery, station commander, WMFS Image: iStock / Mohamed Rasik Finally, and although winter may seem far away, WMFS is urging businesses not to cut corners when heating their buildings during the colder months. Follow its useful tips on staying safe (see panel) and ensure that you register your products. For further information, please contact your local Trading Standards Service