Friday 30 September 2011

Two dead as blaze forces passengers to flee ship

Two dead as blaze forces passengers to flee ship - info4fire September 2011

More than 200 passengers had to be evacuated from a cruise ship after an intense fire killed two crew members and injured a dozen other people.

The MS Nordlys was off the coast of Alesund, western Norway, when the disaster struck at around 9am on 16 September.

It’s thought an explosion sparked a fire in the engine room that sent smoke racing through the ship, according to the Daily Telegraph. After the alarm was raised, the 207 passengers were ordered onto the deck to be evacuated, many in lifeboats.

The ship’s hull was damaged causing the ship to gently make its way into port, where the rest of passengers and crew were taken off.

It was at the port that the two dead crew members were discovered, with the injured suffering from burns and smoke inhalation.


Click on link above for Video.

Wednesday 28 September 2011

Fire Risk Assessment membership of the FIA

From Fire Industry Association:

We're pleased to say that the FIA ’s fire risk assessors register currently has 40 member companies.

The FIA changed its membership criteria in April 2011 and requested key pieces of evidence of quality control, insurance and individuals’ competence. The change moves the membership closer towards full third party certification and is a major step forward from the previous declaration to abide by a simple code of practice.

Prior to the change there were 85 companies listed and the exercise has certainly highlighted that many companies will need to establish quality procedures within their businesses if they are ever going to be ready for full third party certification. Whilst we have lost 20 or more companies from the list on a permanent basis we continue to work with another 25 to help them get through the process.

Work on the ‘Competency Criteria’ has continued with the draft for public comment deadline closing on 7th September, the Competency Council has already met and worked through the public comments. There are a few amendments and draft wording currently under further review with the hope that the criteria will be finally published in October. Work has started on a second document, which once agreed, will give guidance (be the signpost) on how Responsible Persons can find competent fire risk assessors. The current thinking is that this will point to third Party certifications schemes.

With BAFE ’S SP205 scheme estimated to be commercially available through at least one Certification Body in April 2012 and Warrington Certification Ltd’s company scheme growing, the timing appears to be coming together nicely. Many will argue that it well overdue but unfortunately these things take time.

The FIA ’s Fire Risk Assessment Council identified training existing members as a way to add value to their membership. The series of CPD days aimed specifically at practicing fire risk assessors have been extremely well received. With Passive Fire Protection, Extinguishing and FD&A days already in the bag, the next two are currently taking bookings.

An update day covering PAS7, PAS 79, SP205, Competency Criteria and Rose Park is planned for 7th October and already has 74 delegates booked. The peoples personal emergency evacuation plans (PEEPs) day on 29th November already has 54 bookings. Plans are now starting to add an Emergency Lighting/Signage/Fire Plans CPD day in February.

The Risk Assessment Council this year has nine vacancies and we are looking to our 40 FRA members to fill these and build upon the work and success of the Council to date.

Fire isk Assessments & Training Ltd has gone through this process and are Registered with The Fire industry Association and The Institution of Fire Engineers.

Hero rabbit saves owners from house fire

From info4fire:

(Reuters) - A pet rabbit is being credited for saving its owners from a house fire in southeastern Alaska before it died of smoke inhalation, fire officials said on Friday.

The rabbit woke up the homeowner early on Tuesday morning by scratching on her chest, the Ketchikan Fire Department said in a statement.

The homeowner realized that the house was full of smoke, woke up her daughter and fled the house.

The fire was brought under control fairly quickly, with four engines, a ladder truck and 33 firefighters responding.

Damage to the house from flames, smoke and water was considered moderate.

While there were no injuries to the mother or daughter, the rabbit was not so lucky. The animal succumbed to smoke inhalation and did not survive, the fire department said.

How could she live with herself. Couldn't she have stuck the rabbit under her arm after it saved her life? How can she sleep at night.

Friday 23 September 2011

Nightclub bosses fined for fire safety breaches

From info4fire:

23rd September 2011

Two nightclub bosses have been fined after breaching fire safety legislation.

Kevin Clarke and Stephen Bailey both appeared before Bury magistrates on 7 September to face charges under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 relating to Coco Lounge, Temptations and Cooler Bar, in the town.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service took legal action following an inspection of the three premises.

Mr Clarke was fined £2,700 plus £1,906 court costs after pleading guilty to seven offences, including not having a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment and failing to provide adequate fire safety training for employees.

Mr Bailey was fined £550 plus £100 court costs after admitting three offences relating to a lack of suitable and sufficient fire risk assessments.

Peter O'Reilly, director of prevention and protection at Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We always support businesses that work to make their premises safe for people to use. However we will take action against those businesses that neglect fire safety and in doing so put the lives of staff and public at risk.

“We hope this court case sends a clear message that fire safety must be taken seriously.”

All too often, Premises owners/Duty Holders try to get FRA's done cheaply or have a go themselves. This is a lesson to all. Get Professionals to carry out Fire Risk Assessments for the Safety of your Clients and keeping compliant with Fire Safety Legislation by having a "suitable & sufficient" FRA carried out.

Wednesday 21 September 2011

From FIA 19th September 2011

Students will not be able to attend classes at a school in Cumbria today (September 19th), after a fire broke out in the food technology unit on Friday.
Crews from Barrow, Dalton-in-Furness, Ulverton, Broughton and Walney were called to Dowdales School, in Dalton, at 14.07 in the afternoon on Friday (September 16th).
The fire started in a classroom, but then spread to the roof of the school building.
Firefighters used 11 breathing apparatus, two hose reel jets and one main jet in tackling the fire, with a team staying once the blaze had been extinguished to damp down the surrounding area.
Early investigations into the cause of the outbreak indicate it may have been started by a faulty tumble dryer, according to the BBC.
The Responsible Person for schools or any other public or commercial building should ensure that electrical appliances are regularly checked as part of fire risk assessment procedures.
Electrical devices, plugs and cables pose a real danger of fire if they are old or badly wired.

This is a good example of the importance of Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) being carried out.

Thursday 15 September 2011

From Fire Industry Association:

UK Govt seeking partners to run Fire Service College


The government is looking for private or voluntary bodies to help it operate the national firefighter training centre following a decline in revenue.

The Fire Service College, based in Gloucestershire, trains fire safety crews in all aspects of their job, from the initial 80-day training programme to refreshers courses. It also provides tuition for other emergency services and overseas firefighters.

Fire minister Bob Neill claimed that, as the college is currently a government-owned trading fund, it did not "provide the flexibility necessary for [it] to operate with sufficient commercial success".

The government is therefore ideally looking to partner with a private firm, with Serco, Babcock and Capital Training Solutions all bidding for the £18 million training contract.

Furthermore, as it is located on a 365-acre former military airfield, the government claims a private firm could expand operations at the facility.



Responding to the Government’s statement on the Fire Service College, David Cartwright, member of the LGA ’s Fire Commission and Chairman of its Fire Service College Working Group, said:

“We saw in the recent civil disturbances the commitment, dedication and professionalism of our firefighters. They deserve the very best training facilities to ensure that they are able to tackle any possible threats and keep the public safe.

“The Fire Service College has suffered from under-investment for a very long time but can still play a key role at the heart of the UK’s fire service. However, the way it’s operating at the moment is not fit for the 21st century and is not financially sustainable so action needs to be taken as soon as possible. The business acumen and extra investment a private partner would provide, coupled with strong leadership from experts in the fire sector, is exactly what it needs.

“The LGA , liaising with leading organisations across the fire sector, carried out a four-month review into modernising the Fire Service College earlier this year. It talked to many professionals and partners, visited the College to see the facilities, and concluded the only viable option to secure its long-term future is a public private partnership. It’s good to see Government Ministers favouring this view.

“Although the Fire Minister's statement is a step in the right direction, we already have a clear view from the sector about what needs to happen next. Rather than consulting further, more momentum is now needed to resolve this problem and get the tendering process underway.”

The Fire Service College reported revenue of £18.5 million for the fiscal year 2010/11, a fall from the £21.7 million it generated during the previous year.

As a former Fire Safety Lecturer at "The College" I find the whole funding issue a travesty. The whole scenario has created a downward spiral in both Courses being offered because many F & RS are carrying out "Local" Training and the Standard/uniformity of training for Fire Officers has suffered because of this.
In the long term, money is not being spent wisely by F&RS throughout the Country and it is time to support your National Fire Service College.

Tuesday 13 September 2011

Blaze prompts plug-in air freshener warning

From Info4fire: Blaze prompts plug-in air freshener warning
13 September 2011



Twenty firefighters tackled a fire in a bungalow that is believed to have been caused by a plug-in air freshener.

Four fire engines attended the property in Stanmore in Middlesex on Thursday 8 September at around 9.30pm.

London Fire Brigade believes the fire was caused by a plug-in air freshener that overheated because it was covered by clothing. The fire was under control shortly after 10pm.

Stanmore watch manager, Simon Horn, said: “When we arrived we were faced with an intense fire and crews did extremely well to stop it from spreading to the roof and adjacent properties. Thankfully nobody was in the bungalow at the time of the fire.

“If people use plug-in air fresheners, they need to be careful to follow the instructions and never place materials next to or on top of them, as they can overheat and cause a fire.”

4 Fire Enigines and 20 firefighters for a fire in a bungalow? Don't let too many know about that or cuts will be swift.

Flaming Nutter

From The Scottish Sun:

A CRAZED reveller has been slammed after he set his head on FIRE — then posted the video on the internet.

The short phone clip shows the nutter spraying deodorant over his hair before lighting it.

He then dances round a hotel bedroom half-naked — using the aerosol to keep the huge flames burning.

The footage, titled "Shaun Edinburgh 2010 being a Firestarter", was filmed by giggling pals and uploaded on to the YouTube website.

But the stunt was slammed by horrified safety campaigners. David Lockhart, of Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service, said: "It beggars belief."

In the film, shot in an Edinburgh hotel, "Shaun" sprays the deodorant all over his head for several seconds.

He then flicks a lighter — and his cropped hair catches fire. And as pals laugh, he performs a wacky dance.

He then sprays more deodorant on to his blazing barnet, which erupts in a giant ball of fire.Finally he smothers the flames with a towel.

On the YouTube site, a pal called mikevarney100 said: "What a legend."


What an idiot more like.

Monday 12 September 2011

Flood Fire Safety

With the amount of rain falling on some parts of Scotland this article may be of interest from USFA:

Flood Fire Safety:

Types of Fire Related Hazards Present During and After a Flood
•Generators are often used during power outages. Unless generators are properly used and maintained, they can be very hazardous.
•Alternative heating devices used incorrectly create fire hazards. Proper use and maintenance can decrease the possibility of a fire.
•Leaking above ground gas lines, damaged or leaking gas or propane containers, and leaking vehicle gas tanks may explode or ignite.
•Pools of water and even appliances can be electrically charged. This can result in a dangerous electrical fire.
•Appliances that have been exposed to water can short and become a fire hazard.

Chemical Safety
•Look for combustible liquids like gasoline, lighter fluid, and paint thinner that may have spilled. Thoroughly clean the spill and place containers in a well-ventilated area.
•Keep combustible liquids away from heat sources.

Electrical Safety
•If your home has sustained flood or water damage, and you can safely get to the main breaker or fuse box, turn off the power.
•Assume all wires on the ground are electrically charged. This includes cable TV feeds.
•Be aware of and avoid downed utility lines. Report downed or damaged power lines to the utility company or emergency services.
•Remove standing water, wet carpets and furnishings. Air dry your home with good ventilation before restoring power.
•Have a licensed electrician check your home for damage.

Generator safety
•Follow the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines when using generators.
•Use a generator or other fuel-powered machines outside the home. CO fumes are odorless and can quickly overwhelm you indoors.
•Use the appropriate sized and type power cords to carry the electric load. Overloaded cords can overheat and cause fires.
•Never run cords under rugs or carpets where heat might build up or damage to a cord may go unnoticed.
•Always refuel generators outdoors.
•Never connect generators to another power source such as power lines. The reverse flow of electricity or 'backfeed' can electrocute an unsuspecting utility worker.

Heating safety
•Kerosene or parafin heaters may not be legal in your area and should only be used where approved by authorities.
•Do not use the kitchen oven range to heat your home. In addition to being a fire hazard, it can be a source of toxic fumes.
•Alternative heaters need their space. Keep anything combustible at least 3 feet away.
•Make sure your alternative heaters have 'tip switches.' These 'tip switches' are designed to automatically turn off the heater in the event they tip over.
•Only use the type of fuel recommended by the manufacturer and follow suggested guidelines.
•Never refill a space heater while it is operating or still hot.
•Refuel heaters only outdoors.
•Make sure wood stoves are properly installed, and at least 3 feet away from combustible materials. Ensure they have the proper floor support and adequate ventilation.
•Use a glass or metal screen in front of your fireplace to prevent sparks from igniting nearby carpets, furniture or other combustible items.

and Remember...
•Do not use alternative heating devices to dry clothes or furnishings.
•Always use a flashlight - not a candle - for emergency lighting.
•Never thaw frozen pipes with a blow torch or other open flame. Use hot water or a device, like a hand-held dryer, evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
•Some smoke alarms may be dependent on your home's electrical service and could be inoperative during a power outage. Check to see if your smoke alarm uses a back-up battery and install a new battery at least once a year.
•Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of your home and inside and outside of sleeping areas.
•All smoke alarms should be tested monthly. All batteries should be replaced with new ones at least once a year.
•If there is a fire hydrant near your home, keep it clear of debris for easy access by the fire department.

Friday 9 September 2011

Fire Safety Guidance Documents

There has been alot of discussion on various Fire Safety Groups and Blogs regarding the use of Guidance Documents. My feelings on this are well known but in case anyone is in doubt, here is a copy of my contribution on Linkedin's Health, Safety & Fire Networking Group.

The Guidance Documents are as described....for Guidance. They were written to assist the RP or Duty Holder here. Unfortuneately Fire Safety Officers are using them as required minimum standards and if your FRA does not follow the Technical Annexes they can be marked as not suitable nor sufficient. This is patently rediculous in existing properties.
The Legislation and assosciated documents make it plain that requirements should be "reasonable and practicable". This is further reinforced by "making sure that the benefits gained are worth the expenditure."
The problem is that many of these buldings have had Fire Certificates issued or were inspected as a Section 9a of The Fire Precautions Act 1971. In many cases the requirements made at the time are not adequate and improvements or upgrades are required. But in other cases the risk has not changed and existing measures should be deemed acceptable.
Many FSO's however, don't have the neccessary skills, experience or knowledge to ascertain whether this is acceptable or not and rely on the Gudance Document Technical Annexes as a crutch.
The Guidance Documents were written for people with no knowledge of Fire Safety ie The RP, not for Fire Safety Officers. A lack of decent training is apparent or Heads of Department are following the easy route by not making informed desicions based on the knowledge, skills and experience that their Staff are meant to have.

Discussion and awareness should be encouraged.Please feel free to comment.

The thread for this was originally started regarding means of escape through pubs. The whole thread can be read here:

http://www.linkedin.com/groupItem?view=&gid=89992&type=member&item=69251122&commentID=51279370&report%2Esuccess=8ULbKyXO6NDvmoK7o030UNOYGZKrvdhBhypZ_w8EpQrrQI-BBjkmxwkEOwBjLE28YyDIxcyEO7_TA_giuRN#commentID_51279370

Wednesday 7 September 2011

Firefighters stuck in lift during a fire.

From The Sun 7th Sept 2011:



FIREMEN were rescued choking from a lift at a blazing tower block yesterday — after they broke a cardinal rule by not using the STAIRS.

The four crew members were in the elevator when it got stuck as their colleagues battled a fourth-floor blaze at the 17-storey building.

A source said after they were hauled clear and taken to hospital to be treated for the effects of smoke and heat: "It beggars belief firemen used the lifts.

"Everyone has it drilled into them to use the stairs — even in a fire drill." The 3am inferno at swanky Salamanca Place in Lambeth, South London, saw 75 firefighters turn up in ten engines and five rescue units.

London Fire Brigade said the four who were rescued suffered "minor smoke inhalation and slight heat exhaustion".

A spokesman confirmed an investigation had been launched into why the lift was used.

A fifth firefighter was also taken to hospital — as were six residents from the block of flats. More than 100 people were evacuated during the two-hour battle to control the blaze.

Nine trapped on the third and fourth floors were dramatically rescued using ladders. Others were led to safety via stairwells.

The Salamanca Tower was built three years ago by Berkeley Homes. Last night the cause of the fire was also being probed.



You couldn't make this up. What on earth were they thinking about?

Fire and Rescue Services Statistics

For the latest Scottish Fire Statistics go to:

http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2011/09/07115354

Thursday 1 September 2011

Presiding Officer's sister dies in house fire. Heartfelt condolences.

From @Newsnetscotland

The sister of Holyrood's Presiding officer Tricia Marwick has been killed in a house fire.

Maureen Brown, who was 60, was killed after a blaze at her home in Husband Place, Dunfermline on Monday.

Mrs Brown, who recently lost her husband, lived alone at the home. The couple had two adult children.

Ms Marwick said: "This is a devastating blow to our family. It is particularly sad as Maureen's husband died only very recently.

"We are immensely grateful for all the messages of support we have received from friends and neighbours. Our family greatly appreciates now being given the time to grieve together in private."

Firefighters put out blaze at historic Edinburgh flats


From BBC:

Text in Bold & Italics is mine.

Forty firefighters took more than seven hours to put out a blaze in a row of historic terraced houses in Edinburgh.

The alarm was raised at 5:20 when fire broke out at a ground-floor flat in Hazelbank Terrace.

The fire spread through neighbouring flats and into the roof.

Firefighters said the narrow streets and historic nature of the colony buildings made it difficult to stop the spread of the fire, which was eventually extinguished at about 14:30.

There are no reports of anyone being injured.


Neighbouring properties were evacuated
Neighbouring properties had to be evacuated and roads had to be closed.

A spokeswoman for Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service said: "By 8.30am firefighters reported that the fire would not be spreading to any further properties."

Will Patterson, who lives nearby, told the BBC Scotland news website: "It was pretty frightening how quickly it spread.

"It's a shame for the residents of the flats, it must be an awful thing to happen to anyone."

A lesson for all. Try to keep combustible materials to a minimum in your loft. Were there no compartment walls between properties to stop fire spread? Maybe someone from L&B F & RS can tell us?