Social Care News

Providers urged to check contingency plans for fire strike

The Welsh Government's Fire and Rescue Advisor and Inspector for Wales has urged social care providers to check their contingency plans and risk assessments ahead of next week's planned firefighters strike.

The Fire Brigades Union confirmed (September 17) that its members will launch a four-hour strike over a pensions dispute next week on September 25, from noon until 4pm.

In his letter dated September 12, Lee Howell, recently appointed Fire and Rescue Advisor and Inspector for Wales, said: "I would also urge you to consider any potential impact a national strike might have on the operation of your organisation. I also encourage you to review your own business continuity arrangements and, where appropriate, take the necessary steps to deal with any particular risks."

He said businesses should check the advice and plans of the three Welsh Fire and Rescue Authorities:-

• South Wales Fire and Rescue Service - business fire safety advice
• North Wales Fire and Rescue Service - take extra care during firefighters strike
• Mid & West Wales Fire and Rescue Service - news on strike action

Further advice on how to deal with the firefighters strike

• See the Welsh Government's advice on the strike

Welsh Government fire safety tips for businesses

• Review your risk assessment and emergency plan – make sure it’s up to date
• Make sure your fire detection system is working effectively and everyone in the building understands what they need to do should it activate
• Practice your emergency evacuation plan to ensure staff and visitors can escape quickly and easily – don’t forget that people with disabilities may need extra help
• Ensure fire wardens are trained
• If you have a fire, call 999:  you will get a response
• Reduce fire hazards – keep sources of ignition well away from flammable materials or substances
• Ask staff to be vigilant to the risk of fire and report any concerns
• Keep escape routes free clear and check signage and emergency lighting
• Keep fire doors shut – they should always be shut anyway
• Switch off electrical equipment when not in use
• Make sure any fire fighting equipment you have works and that everyone expected to use it knows how to o so safely
• Reduce the risk of arson – minimise the build up of rubbish and store it in a safe place.  Keep your building secure