5,000 fires reported at Berkshire businesses in last two years

Businesses in Berkshire are being urged to take extra measures to ensure correct fire safety. The county's Fire and Rescue service says there were more than 2,000 fires in industrial premises in 2013 to 2014, and over 5,500 in commercial and retail sites and nearly 2,000 fires in educational and health premises.

Business Fire Safety Week is taking place during a time when many companies take on seasonal staff to help with the Christmas rush. Fire service staff say it offers a good opportunity to train new staff and remind existing staff of the importance of fire safety. Despite the number of fires decreasing over the past few years, the cost and disruption of a fire to a local company is increasing.

Area Manager Dave Phillips, Head of Prevention and Protection at RBFRS, said: "It is more important than ever that businesses review their fire risk assessment during this incredibly busy period. It is now that the risk of fire increases and therefore the risk of potential casualties. RBFRS is supporting Business Fire Safety Week in order to encourage business owners to be extra vigilant and make sure that all fire precautions are taken to ensure a safe lead up to the seasonal period."