As part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of the children in our care, this article focuses on the critical importance of keeping fire exit doors and routes clear, especially in baby sleeping rooms.
Why It Matters: In the event of a fire, every second counts. Clear and unobstructed fire exit doors and routes are essential for the swift and safe evacuation of our youngest and most vulnerable occupants. Babies and toddlers rely entirely on our prompt and efficient response to emergencies, making it imperative that we maintain clear pathways at all times.
Key Points to Remember:
- Unobstructed Exits: Fire exit doors must remain free from any obstructions, such as furniture, toys, or other items. This ensures that in an emergency, staff can quickly and easily access these exits to evacuate the children safely.
- Clear Routes: Pathways leading to fire exits should be kept clear and free from clutter. This includes ensuring that cots, prams, and other equipment are not blocking the way. Clear routes facilitate a smooth and rapid evacuation process.
- Common Issue: We have observed that cots are sometimes placed in front of fire exit doors. This practice can significantly hinder evacuation efforts and must be avoided at all costs. Always ensure that cots are positioned away from exit doors to maintain clear access.
- Regular Checks: Conduct regular checks to ensure that fire exit doors and routes are unobstructed. This should be part of your daily routine to guarantee that you are always prepared for any emergency.
- Compliance with Legislation: Adhering to fire safety regulations, such as the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, is not only a legal requirement but also a moral obligation to protect the lives of the children in our care. Article 14 of the RRFSO 2005 mandates that emergency routes and exits must be kept clear and accessible at all times.
By keeping fire exit doors and routes clear, you are taking a proactive step in safeguarding the lives of the children in your nursery. Let us all remain vigilant and committed to maintaining the highest standards of fire safety.
For more advice please contact the Fire Safety Team: scfiresafety@somerset.gov.uk
