Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service is urging
managers and licensees to review their fire safety procedures to
prevent incidents which may spoil the festivities.
The main issues are often due to:
- overcrowding
- locked exits
- flammable decoration for example banners and flags
Business Safety Manager Paul Bray, of Devon & Somerset Fire
& Rescue Service, said: "It's a tradition for people to watch
the football in the pub with a pint but it's the landlord's
responsibility to ensure they do so safely.
"That includes having measures in place to ensure that everyone
could escape safely in the event of a fire."
We would also Iike to remind all licenced premises owners and
managers that they have a responsibility to manage the number of
persons using the premises by reviewing their risk assessment and
where necessary, implementing control measures to ensure their
premises do not become overcrowded during this busy time.
The use of furnishings and other materials which are easily
ignited or have rapid spread of flame characteristics should be
avoided.
Further information on fire safety in licenced premises can be
found on our webpage 'Safety at work and other places' in
Fire safety guidance and
Risk assessments.
The relevant risk assessment guides for licenced premises are
either 'Fire Safety Risk Assessment: Small and Medium Places of
Assembly' (holding 300 persons or less) or 'Fire Safety Risk
Assessment: Large Places of Assembly' (holding more than 300
persons).
Members of public visiting any premises where they have concerns
about the standard of fire safety should phone 01392 872200, and
ask to speak to a fire safety officer.