Shops Targetted To Ensure Firework Safety
Officers from Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service’s Fire Protection Team have been visiting businesses across the county in a bid to make sure that fireworks are being stored safely in the run up to Bonfire Night and Diwali.
The initiative, which will extend beyond 5 November, is designed to ensure that retailers have the correct risk assessment in place for the storage of fireworks on their premises. Fire Protection Officers will be inspecting under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order, to ensure business owners have maintained a safe environment for themselves and their customers, as well as ensuring the safety of fire crews should they be called to an incident at the premises. They will also be examining aspects such as whether there is an adequate means of escape from the property and whether the correct signage is being used to indicate where fireworks are being stored.
Group Manager Ian Taylor, of the Fire Protection Team, said: “Under the current legislation all businesses must have a fire risk assessment in place, but if they are introducing fireworks into their premises, they will need to evaluate and, if necessary, rewrite it. Fireworks present an explosive and fire risk and this needs to be addressed in the risk assessment. Our aim is to assist businesses in moving forward safely and to help ensure that that they comply with the Fire Safety Order to safeguard the public. “
Letters have already gone out to retailers reminding them of the legislation and advising them that inspections are being carried out. Any fire safety issues or hazards that are identified during the inspections will be passed on to local fire crews so they are aware should they be called to an incident at offending premises. Fire Protection Officers will also be working closely with Trading Standards to highlight areas of concern.
Ian added: “People often forget that fireworks are explosives and, when exposed to a naked flame, they have the potential to burn, seriously injure or even kill if used incorrectly. With Bonfire Night and Diwali falling on the same day this year it is vitally important that retailers ensure they are fully compliant with legislation.
“Our work with businesses across the county will help them to achieve this, as well as ensuring they are fully aware of their responsibilities in ensuring that fireworks are enjoyed safely.”
