Dorset & Wiltshire firefighters inspect 250 tower blocks

A typical tower block in the region Credit: ITV

Dorset Fire & Rescue Service have released a statement confirming that they are working with building owners to inspect and check almost 250 high rise residential tower blocks in their area.

Firefighters have begun visiting 202 blocks consisting of five to eight storey towers - most of them are in Bournemouth and Poole. Fire safety officers are focusing on forty other blocks which have more than nine floors.

The firefighters are checking:

  • Fire risk assessments,

  • Means of escape from buildings

  • Fire doors

  • Fiire alarms

  • Evacuation plans

  • Emergency lighting

The service also repeated that it continues to promote the fitting of sprinkler systems in all buildings, because sprinklers are known to save lives and reduce the amount of damage to property.

The statement mentioned the example of a sprinkler system which prevent a flat fire in Poole from spreading out of control last month.

Anyone who lives in Dorset or Wiltshire can ask for a free 'Safe & Well' visit from the fire and rescue service by telephoning 0800 038 2323 or by visiting the dedicated 'Safe & Well' website online.