Fire service calls for action ahead of law change

Surrey Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) is calling on building owners and managers to take action ahead of a major change in fire safety law.

Under the new regulations "responsible persons" must identify residents who may need assistance to evacuate and offer and complete a person-centred fire risk assessment for them.

The legislation, which follows recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, aims to improve the safety of residents who may struggle to evacuate during a fire.

Rob Jenks, group commander for protection at SFRS, said: "The Grenfell Tower tragedy highlighted the urgent need for clear evacuation plans for those unable to self-evacuate."

From 6 April, the Fire Safety (Residential Evacuation Plans) (England) Regulations 2025 will come into effect, introducing new legal duties for "responsible persons" of certain high-rises.

They must also develop and agree an emergency evacuation statement with each relevant resident, detailing what they should do in the event of a fire, and prepare a building-wide emergency evacuation plan.

The change applies to residential buildings that are 18m (59ft) or higher, or with seven or more storeys, or buildings that are over 11m (26ft) that operate a simultaneous evacuation strategy.

Follow BBC Surrey on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.