The staycation continues to be a popular choice for holidaymakers, which is excellent news for the local hospitality sector. Warmer weather attracts more visitors but heat, coupled with popular campsite activities such as fires and barbecues, can increase the risk of fires occurring.
Fire safety advice for Responsible Persons
The following is recommended to be applied by the owners of campsites to reduce the chance of fires occurring:
- Provide a means to detect and give warning in case of fire, suitable for the size, layout, and number of occupants.
- Keep safe distances between motorhomes, caravans, tents and awnings. They should be pitched at least six metres apart to prevent the spread of fire.
- Ensure designated escape routes are kept clear of obstructions, are adequately illuminated, and can be used safely at all times. Tents, awnings and ropes should be kept clear of emergency exit routes.
- Provide guests with information on the fire safety measures in place and the procedures to follow in case of fire. It is important that people are aware of what is expected of them in the event of a fire.
- Install appropriate fire signage across your site.
- If permitted, fire pits and barbecues should be kept clear of any tented structures and hedgerows, and positioned on a non-combustible surface. Disposable barbecues and campfires are not recommended.
- Cut long grass and vegetation at frequent and regular intervals to prevent it becoming a fire hazard. Clippings should be removed and be disposed of safely.
- Keep waste material in suitable containers before it is removed from the site. Good housekeeping will lower the chance of a fire starting, so the accumulation of combustible materials should be monitored carefully.
- Provide and maintain good access for the fire & rescue service. It is important that firefighters can get to every part of the site.
- Provide suitable fire-fighting equipment which is appropriate to the risk and ensure that it is maintained and tested.
- All staff should receive suitable training, so they understand what you expect them to do in case of fire, including training those nominated to use firefighting equipment.
- Carry out regular visual checks for damage to installations, including hook-ups and equipment. Ensure that electrical testing is carried out, inspection reports are to up to date, and they are in compliance with site licence conditions.
- Identify and manage fire hazards, and comply with legislative requirements. The Responsible Person for the site must conduct a fire risk assessment to identify the types of fires that are most likely to occur on your site. It should be a suitable and sufficient assessment of risks for the purpose of identifying the general fire precautions needed.
For further guidance on your responsibilities under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, visit www.gov.uk/government/collections/fire-safety-legislation-guidance-for-those-with-legal-duties