Fire Hazards in Self-Servicing Accommodation and How to Prevent Them

Self-servicing accommodations, such as holiday lets and Airbnb properties, offer flexibility and comfort for travellers. However, these types of properties also pose unique fire safety challenges. Understanding the fire hazards present in self-servicing accommodations and knowing how to avoid them is crucial for property owners and managers. This blog will discuss common fire hazards in self-servicing accommodations and provide practical tips on how to prevent them, ensuring the safety of guests and properties.

Common Fire Hazards in Self-Servicing Accommodation

In self-servicing accommodations, kitchens are often used by guests with varying levels of cooking experience. Unattended cooking, grease build-up, and malfunctioning appliances can lead to fires. To prevent these risks, provide clear instructions for using appliances, ensure regular cleaning to prevent grease build-up, and install fire blankets and extinguishers nearby. Additionally, portable heaters, fireplaces, and central heating systems can be fire hazards if not properly maintained or used incorrectly. Regularly inspecting and maintaining heating equipment, providing safety instructions for use, and ensuring heaters are kept away from flammable materials can help to avoid these risks.

Faulty wiring, overloaded sockets, and damaged electrical appliances are other common fire hazards. Regular electrical safety checks, providing adequate power outlets to avoid overloading, and promptly replacing damaged appliances are essential steps in maintaining electrical safety. Furthermore, guests might use candles or have access to fireplaces, both of which can pose significant fire risks. Providing flameless alternatives such as LED candles, supplying fire screens for fireplaces, and posting clear guidelines on the safe use of open flames can help minimise these risks.

Smoking inside the accommodation can lead to accidental fires, particularly if cigarettes are not properly extinguished. Implementing a strict no-smoking policy indoors, providing designated outdoor smoking areas with appropriate disposal units, and clearly communicating this policy to guests can effectively reduce smoking-related fire hazards. Additionally, outdoor cooking equipment, such as barbecues, can be fire hazards if used improperly or placed too close to the property. Ensuring barbecues are placed in safe, well-ventilated areas, providing clear instructions on their use, and keeping a fire extinguisher nearby can help prevent fire incidents associated with outdoor cooking equipment.

Fire Safety Measures and Best Practices

Regular fire risk assessments are essential to identify potential hazards and ensure compliance with fire safety regulations. Here are some best practices to implement in your fire safety measures.

• Schedule annual fire risk assessments and additional reviews after significant changes to the property or its use.
• Install smoke alarms and heat detectors throughout the property to provide early warning of a fire. Test alarms monthly and replace batteries regularly to ensure they are always operational.
• In the event of a fire, clear visibility is essential for a safe evacuation. Install emergency lighting in hallways, stairwells, and exit routes to guide guests to safety during an emergency.
• Clearly, marked and unobstructed escape routes are vital for a swift evacuation. Post evacuation plans in visible areas, ensure exits are always accessible, and conduct periodic drills to familiarise guests with the procedures.
• Informing guests about fire safety procedures and the location of fire safety equipment is essential. Provide written instructions on fire safety upon check-in, include information in the property manual, and offer verbal briefings if possible.

How Fire Stoppers Can Help

Fire Stoppers specialises in providing comprehensive fire safety solutions tailored to the needs of business owners, landlords, and property managers. Our services include detailed fire risk assessments, installation and maintenance of fire detection and alarm systems, and emergency lighting solutions. We also offer customised fire safety training programs to ensure that everyone is well-informed and prepared in case of an emergency. Partner with Fire Stoppers to maintain the highest standards of fire safety and protect your properties and occupants.

Learn more about our services by visiting our website or contacting us today.