More than 125 fire-fighters are tackling the blaze which has so far consumed an entire construction site and spread to two blocks of apartments and a local pub at 04:30 this morning, with reports of “flying debris” and “cars ablaze” in the streets. An eyewitness stated to have seen flames shooting 20ft in to the air from apartments and mass pandemonium.
Reports have so far indicated that only one person has been admitted to hospital suffering from smoke inhalation, deemed not life threatening, with no other known casualties, and ambulances on standby at the scene.
A spokesman from the London Fire Brigade has advised that fire has spread very quickly with the possibility of gas chambers being involved. Roads have been closed and nearby properties have been severely damaged as a result. Presently the cause of the fire is unknown.
Fire is one of the biggest killers, and it can affect absolutely anyone. It’s the reason very strict legislation is in place for businesses, public establishments, factories ect to ensure that every possible measure is taken to prevent a fire and to prevent anyone from being injured (or worse) if a fire breaks out.
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (source) presents the guidelines for fire health and safety for these types of establishments.
Primary examples for general fire precaution include:
- Sufficient and accessible means of escape (i.e. several fire exits for the building)
- Sufficient means and equipment in place for fire fighting in the premises (fire extinguishers)
- Sufficient means of fire detection and warning (commonly fire alarms).
- Sufficient instruction, training and drills for people to know what to do should a fire break out.
As well as the above, sufficient means should be in place for the prevention of fire and the prevention of fire spreading. This can range from the safe storage of combustible materials to specialist fire doors that can prevent the spread of a fire, and even specialist fire cement to help prevent the spread.
If these regulations are not adhered to, the persons responsible are negligent in their duty of care over anyone who is hurt.
Say for example a fire breaks out in a shop and there are no fire extinguishers or fire exits in place. They are negligent and are breaking fire safety regulations; they are liable to pay damages to anyone injured as a result. And let’s face it; fire is a clear and obvious killer! These regulations should not be taken lightly and are extremely important!!!
We suggest of course you seek expert advice from an independent personal injury solicitor if you have been injured as a result of an accident. An independent solicitor can give you the right advice, and normally tell you right away if you have a claim for compensation.