Fire service plea to cut false alarms

Between 6.30pm on Monday (August 1) and 4.30am the following day, there were nine false alarms in Brighton, Seaford, Eastbourne, Crowborough and Hastings, potentially diverting crews from real emergencies.

ESRFS says it is important to remember that false alarms have a number of causes, most of which can be avoided.

How you can help:

• Fire alarm systems are there to alert occupants to the fact that there may be a fire and depending on your fire risk assessment and emergency plans, it is normally appropriate to investigate first and only to call the fire service if and when there are any signs to indicate that there is actually a fire.

• If you have an automatic alarm system, make sure it is installed property, that you know how it works and it is serviced regularly by a competent person.

• Best practice requires that false alarms are logged and investigated so that any patterns and trends are identified and dealt with.

• Be aware that steam and dust can trigger alarms and take precautions when possible.

• If you are having a bonfire, please tell your neighbours first so that they can shut windows and doors if necessary.

If there is a fire, call 999 immediately and do not put yourself at risk. Only attempt to use any extinguisher if trained and it is safe to do so.

More advice can be found on the East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service website at www.esfrs.org/business-safety/false-alarm-reduction/

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