Folkestone residential home praised for fire safety measures
The owners of a Folkestone residential home have been awarded a "Safer Home" plaque by Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS).
St Heliers in Clifton Gardens, a Victorian property with 30 bedrooms, has been recognised for its fire safety measures which include having sprinklers systems installed. The average age of its residents is 92, some of whom use walking aids, but by installing sprinklers, the owners have been allowed flexibility with other fire regulations including the use of free-swinging doors rather than heavy self-closing fire doors.
Owner Richard Fraser explained why he'd taken the decision to fit these potentially life-saving devices: "We attended a KFRS meeting and it became apparent that if a sprinkler system were installed then certain other requirements could be relaxed.
"Each resident was moved out of their room for just one day while the sprinklers were fitted so we didn't have to close down and they're all reassured that the best possible measures are now in place for their wellbeing. In the case of fire, there is nothing more important than the safety of our residents and staff."
Director of St Heliers, Liz Burton added:
"Although we hope we never need to use the sprinklers, all the residents feel much more secure having them there and I'm sure that potential customers may look more favourably on a home like ours when they are looking for somewhere for their elderly loved ones."
Commenting on the development, KFRS Assistant Director Steve Griffiths said:
"We are committed to reducing the number of accidental fire deaths and injuries and believe that sprinkler systems in the homes of vulnerable people are a vital step towards achieving this goal.
"The owners of St Heliers have set an excellent example in demonstrating the freedom and flexibility that sprinklers provide and we hope other property owners recognise this success by following the excellent example they have set in fire protection measures."
One of the key factors driving risks of fire and injury is the ever increasing number of vulnerable people living within the community. For this reason, KFRS is campaigning to dispel the misconceptions and myths surrounding sprinkler systems, and has also introduced the 'Safer Home Scheme' with the aim of raising awareness of the partnerships and available grants that are already in existence.
Steve added: "The Safer Home Scheme recognises social housing providers and local developers who proactively install fixed sprinkler systems into the homes of those most at risk within our communities.
"It is hoped that this recognition will encourage others to make similar positive contributions towards community safety through design and development and ultimately help to make our communities safer places to live."
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