{{org_field_logo}}
{{org_field_name}}
Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}
Fire Safety and Evacuation Procedures
1. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to ensure the safety of all {{org_field_name}} service users, staff, and visitors by outlining fire prevention measures and emergency evacuation procedures. As a supported living provider, it is essential that all staff members understand their role in preventing fire hazards and responding effectively in the event of a fire emergency in a service user’s home. This policy complies with the Health and Social Care Act 2008 and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all {{org_field_name}} employees, service users, contractors, and visitors who engage with the company’s operations. As supported living staff work within service users’ homes (within our supported living facilities), it is crucial that they are vigilant in identifying fire hazards and understand their role in evacuation and safety procedures tailored to each individual’s needs.
3. Legal and Regulatory Compliance
This policy aligns with the following legislation and regulations:
- The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
- The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
- The Care Act 2014
- The Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014, specifically Regulation 12 on safe care and treatment.
4. Responsibilities
The responsibility for fire safety is shared among all stakeholders:
- The Registered Manager is responsible for overseeing fire safety measures, ensuring compliance with legislation, and providing training to staff.
- Care Staff must remain alert to fire hazards in service users’ homes, follow fire safety procedures, and assist in emergency evacuations where necessary.
- Service Users and Visitors should adhere to fire safety guidance provided and cooperate in emergency situations.
Staff should regularly inspect service users’ homes for potential fire risks, such as overloaded electrical sockets, blocked exits, and the presence of flammable materials. Any identified hazards must be reported to the Registered Manager immediately.
5. Fire Prevention Measures
To mitigate the risk of fire, the following measures must be adhered to:
- Conduct regular fire risk assessments in each service user’s home.
- Ensure all electrical appliances and heating equipment are properly maintained and inspected.
- Store flammable materials safely, away from heat sources.
- Maintain a strict no-smoking policy where applicable, or ensure that designated smoking areas are used safely.
- Provide fire safety training to staff, including the correct use of fire extinguishers and fire blankets.
6. Fire Emergency Procedures
In the event of a fire, domiciliary care staff must act quickly and decisively to ensure the safety of service users. The following steps must be taken:
- Upon discovering a fire:
- Raise the alarm immediately by calling 999 or 112.
- Alert the service user and any other occupants, ensuring they are aware of the situation.
- If it is safe to do so, attempt to contain the fire using appropriate extinguishers or fire blankets.
- If the fire cannot be contained, evacuate the service user and yourself immediately.
Evacuation Procedures for Service Users:
- Each service user will have an individual risk assessment that considers their mobility and cognitive abilities. Staff must familiarise themselves with these assessments to ensure an efficient response in emergencies.
- If the service user is ambulatory, guide them to the nearest safe exit.
- If the service user has mobility impairments, assist them using pre-planned evacuation techniques, such as supporting them physically or using mobility aids.
- If evacuation is not possible, staff must move the service user to a safe refuge area and inform emergency responders of their location.
- Once outside, take the service user to a safe assembly point and provide reassurance until emergency services arrive.
7. Fire Safety Training
To ensure that all staff members are competent in fire safety:
- Annual fire safety training sessions will be conducted.
- Staff will be trained in hazard identification, fire extinguisher use, and emergency evacuation techniques.
- Fire drills will be carried out at least once a year to assess staff readiness.
8. Reporting and Record-Keeping
All fire safety checks, risk assessments, and training records must be documented. In the event of a fire incident, staff must submit a detailed report to the Registered Manager, who will review and implement any necessary improvements. Records must be maintained for at least three years.
9. Review and Continuous Improvement
This policy will be reviewed annually, when any changes in the regulations occur, or following any fire incident to ensure effectiveness and compliance with updated regulations. Staff feedback will be encouraged to identify areas for improvement.
Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.