Date: 17th October, 2016
Staff and residents at Somerleigh Court care home operated by LifeCare Residences in Dorchester, will be safer from fire thanks to the installation of a new sprinkler system, on advice from Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS).
Earlier this year, Domestic Sprinklers Ltd fitted a brand new sprinkler system throughout the residential care home in Princes Street, Dorchester. This came after advice from DWFRS that some of the displays and activities within the building, designed to improve care for dementia patients, were actually creating a fire risk.
Sean Blizzard, Fire Safety Enforcement Manager said: “Late last year our team received a call from Somerleigh Court requesting some advice. When we attended it was clear that there were some well-meaning fire safety hazards in the building which could prevent safe escape in the case of a fire. We suggested a sprinkler system as a way forward and we are delighted that Somerleigh Court moved forward with this suggestion.
He added: “Sprinklers are not a cheap option but they do suppress a fire in a room, sometimes extinguishing it, so that people can escape safely. In this case Somerleigh Court have not only made their building safer for residents and staff but can safely continue their recommended work in dementia care.”
Graham Oakes, village manager, Somerleigh Court by LifeCare Residences, comments: “At Somerleigh Court, the safety and well-being of our residents is our top priority, and we constantly strive to ensure that we are delivering the most thorough service.
“By installing such an advanced sprinkler system, following trusted advice from the DWFRS, we are continuing to put the safety of our residents first, while allowing our staff to administer first-rate care, safe in the knowledge that we have mitigated against the risk of possible fire hazards.”
ENDS
Notes to editors
The attached picture shows (L-R) Care Home Manager Graham Oakes, DWFRS Fire Safety Enforcement Manager Sean Blizzard with nurses and care staff from Somerleigh Court.
Emily Cheeseman
Senior Communication Officer
Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service
Tel. 01722 691087
Mobile. 07785 307272
Email: [email protected]
@DWFireRescue
facebook.com/DWFire