SAFE Fire Direct - Blog
Tragic Campsite Accident from Carbon Monoxide poisioning. - 08/05/2012
The Shropshire campsite death of a teenager and the poisioning of her family has again highlighted the dangers of CO poisioning from camp fires and in this case, portable barbeque's. Mr Wright who owned the campsite said "You don't realise that they are giving off fumes for hours and hours after you have used them."
Most CO alarms are portable and can be taken on holidays and alike.
Please consider a Carbon Monoxide Alarm if you are camping or caravaning.
Deadly blaze hits Moscow market warehouse - 04/04/2012
At least 17 people have been killed by a fire that swept through a warehouse in Moscow yesterday (Tuesday).
The two-storey building was being used as living quarters for the market vendors, who had no direct access from their room to the street.
The market fire broke out at about 04:50 (00:50 GMT) and was extinguished some three hours later, RIA Novosti news agency said, citing officials.
Most of the dead were from the central Asian state of Tajikistan and the rest may have come from other countries in the region, state media said.
They were staying in a metal storage warehouse at a construction materials market which "was not meant for people to live in," Sergei Gorbunov of the fire department told RIA.
To read the full story please Click Here
Gas Safety Trust Announces Latest Figures on Fuel Safety - 02/04/2012
The Gas Safety Trust, the UK’s consumer fuel safety charity, has today (2nd April) released the latest facts & figures on carbon monoxide incidents for 2010/11. The report, which is the fifteenth in the series, analyses accidental carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning incidents in Great Britain associated with the use of mains natural gas and piped LPG in the home. And for the first time, this year, the report includes an assessment of domestic solid fuel and oil heating incidents as reported by HETAS and OFTEC, offering a picture of carbon monoxide safety issues across all fuels.
50 incidents associated with domestic mains natural gas were reported during this period, resulting in 101 casualties (non-fatal) and 8 fatalities, which is slightly fewer incidents than 2009/10 (57) and 2008/09 (56). Of the 8 fatalities, five were associated with central heating appliances, two with cookers and one with a space heater. The total is twice the figure for 2009/10, although it’s too early to say whether this is due to natural variability or represents a definite trend.
The report, which was prepared by Downstream Gas Ltd and funded by the Gas Safety Trust, identifies common concerns involved in carbon monoxide incidents related to appliance and system design, the home environment, installation, servicing and maintenance.
The conclusions reached are intended to help further improve safety, to target investment on carbon monoxide incident prevention and to identify additional research work.
Gas Safety Trust Board Chair, Chris Bielby said; “The Gas Safety Trust is pleased to fund this report. We strongly believe that the information and data contained within it to be crucial to the further reduction in fatalities or serious injuries from accidental carbon monoxide exposure in the home environment.”
The report covers the period from 1st July 2010 to 30th June 2011.
Around 20% of the reported casualties in 2010/11 were categorized as less severe (not requiring hospital treatment). This compares to an average of only 11% prior to 2008/09. This suggests a greater proportion of incidents are being identified before serious injury takes place and one contributory reason may be an increased use of carbon monoxide alarms.
The two below tables show the figures of Injuries & Deaths caused by Carbon Monoxide From July 2007 to June 2011:
The full DIDR Report is available to View here.
Source: http://www.gas-safety-trust.org.uk/gas-safety-trust-announces-latest-figures-fuel-safety
Tanker Strike - Are You Storing Petrol? - 29/03/2012
With the Tanker Strike threat people are filling up their tank with some storing extra in Jerry Cans.
The London Fire Brigade have released the below recommendations for the storage of petrol:
Fuel should be stored away from the house in either a shed or a garage, well away from people and anywhere where it might be close to a naked flame or other source of ignition.
If people are planning on storing petrol they should only use containers built specifically for the purpose of carrying fuel. Appropriate containers are available from car accessory stores.
- These are metal containers of 10 litres (approximately 2 gallons) or plastic containers of five litres (approximately 1 gallon) and people should have no more than two of each.
Domestic Storage:
Petrol is a highly flammable, explosive and toxic substance. There are laws you must obey and rules you need to follow if you are storing it
It's against the law to store more than 20 litres (4 gallons) of petrol in two 10 litre (2 gallon) metal containers, and 10 litres (2 gallons) in two 5 litre (1 gallon) plastic containers. All containers must be designed for the purpose and they must be marked petroleum and highly flammable.
If you are going to be storing petrol please ensure it is done safely, you obey the law and follow the above guidelines.
25th March – When You Change your Clocks – Test Your Alarms! - 16/03/2012
On the 25th March 2012 we all lose an hours sleep, but on the plus side British Summer times begins!
It goes without saying, you WILL change your clock, but will you test the alarms in your house that could save your life? It is just as simple to test an alarm as it is to change the time on your clocks.
Firekills are promoting a “Change Your Clock – Test Your Alarms!” campaign, with a powerful video (which can be seen below).
There are many tragic, but preventable, deaths caused by both Fire & Carbon Monoxide every year. A correctly functioning Smoke or CO alarm would give a clear audible alarm providing a warning to escape the property.
On 18 February 2010, Katie Haines (31), died tragically of accidental Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning at her home. The Katie Haines Memorial Trust, is one of many campaigns trying to raise the awareness of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning and the importance of a working detector & alarm. For more information on Katie’s story, or to donate and support their campaign please visit: www.katiehaines.com
On 7 January 2012, four siblings, Reece Smith, 19, four-year-old twins Holly and Ella Smith and two-year-old Jordan Smith, were killed in a house fire in Freckleton. Investigations into the fire found that the house did have smoke alarms installed, but they were not working.
A working CO or Smoke alarm could have prevented both of these losses.
How long would it take you to test your smoke & carbon monoxide alarms? 1 or 2 minutes? It’s a press of a button! Simple but this act could save yours or a member of your family’s life!
Please watch the below video, and test your alarms. You never know 2 minutes of your time could save your life!
Gas fitter Andrew Hartley guilty over Zoe Anderson's death - 02/03/2012
A gas fitter from Somerset has been found guilty of killing a woman who died of carbon monoxide poisoning because of a badly fitted boiler.
Andrew Hartley, 36, of Bath New Road in Radstock, had denied the manslaughter of Zoe Anderson, 24, but was found guilty at Bristol Crown Court.
She was found dead by her boyfriend in the shower room at her father's home in Lansdown, Bath, on 29 December 2010.
Hartley had installed the boiler two weeks earlier.
The jury found Hartley guilty of manslaughter by gross negligence by a majority of 10 to two, following a two-week trial.
Speaking outside court, Miss Anderson's mother Lucy Evans, said she had found forgiveness "hard work".
"But the Bible promises me that the truth will set us free," she said. "So I have prayed that our hearts and minds will be set free now.
"Free to enjoy the fabulous memories we have of Zoe, free to forgive, free to nurture and help each other and to rebuild our lives."
GP Fined For Exposing Tennants to Risk of Carbon Monoxide Poisioning - 14/02/2012
A GP from East Renfrewshire has been fined for failing to maintain a gas boiler, potentially exposing student tenants to the risk of carbon monoxide poisioning.
Dr Tariq Mahmood admitted breaching gas safety regulations by failing to maintain the boiler at the flat in Oxford between 2009 and 2010, and has been ordered to pay costs of £4,928.
He was prosecuted by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) after the matter was reported by a gas engineer.
The HSE said Dr Mahmood's lack of care could have had "serious consequences".
After the hearing, HSE inspector Dozie Azubike said: "Dr Mahmood's lack of care could have had very serious consequences for his Oxford University student tenants."
"Every year approximately 20 people die and many others suffer ill health from carbon monoxide poisoning."
SAFE Fire Direct Introduce Aico RadioLink Systems - 03/02/2012
The Aico RadioLink Fire Alarm Systems are ideal for social or rented properties and are considered to be the complete solution to British Standard 5839: part 6: 2004.
Aico RadioLink enable installers to make high costs savings on both labour and installation costs, saving on installation time and cabling. All devices on a RadioLink System are connected via radio frequency eradicating the need for interlink cabling.
We have compared our prices throughout the market, and are pleased to offer a very competitive pricing structure on the RadioLink Products, with bulk discount available on the entire range.
To view the entire Aico RadioLink Range Click Here.
Nine In Hospital After Carbon Monoxide Leak - 20/01/2012
THREE children and six adults are in hospital after a carbon monoxide leak in a block of flats yesterday.
The London Fire Brigade (LFB) were called to Taywood Road, in the Grand Union Village, Northolt, at about 8.30am on Thursday (19). Firefighters evacuated and ventilated the building by 10.30am.
The cause of the leak is unknown and an investigation has been launched. Carbon monoxide is a toxic, colourless gas used in kitchen hobs. The LFB advised residents to install a carbon monoxide detector.
Neighbour Jan Wilford said: "I know three families have been taken away to hospital. The fire brigade have been wonderful, they're now clearing the area. It happened in the block of flats."
For More Information on this story Click Here.
SAFE Fire Direct Introduce Fire Escape Ladders - 04/01/2012
In our continued commitment to offer a wide range of high quality products, SAFE Fire Direct now stock and supply Fire Escape Ladders
If a fire was to break out at your house or office, do you have a planned exit strategy from the upper floors? If your answer is NO a fire escape ladder is ideal and would give you the peace of mind that you have a safe exit in an emergency situation.
Fire Escape Ladders are ideal for any premises. Whether it be for work or home they provide a safe and secure exit in case of an emergency.
Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year - 23/12/2011
All the staff at SAFE Fire Direct would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
SAFE Fire Direct Extend Range of Fire Safety Signs & Notices - 29/11/2011
In our continued commitment to offer a wide range of high quality products, SAFE Fire Direct have extended our range of Fire Safety Signs & Notices.
Our recent additions include:
Whilst we expand our portfolio we strive to give you competitive prices on all fire protection products. Our aim is to give our customers high quality products, at competitive prices. We compare our prices to competitors on a daily basis to ensure we are giving you great value for money.
Remembrance Bellringers Treated For Carbon Monoxide Poisioning - 15/11/2011
A bell tower has been sealed off after several bell ringers were taken to hospital with carbon monoxide poisoning.
The potentially-lethal gas was leaking from the boiler in the basement of the tower at St Botolph's Church in The Hill, Northfleet, on Remembrance Sunday.
More than 500 people attended the services at the church and the war memorial.
The Rev Lawrence Smith said the bell tower would not be opened until the fault was fixed.
He also said he spoke to bell ringers last night and said they were recovering at home.
Thameside fire crews were called to St Botolph's Church, on The Hill, Northfleet, at 9.50am after a faulty boiler caused those in the bell tower to breathe in the toxic gas.
A spokesman for Kent Fire and Rescue Service, said: "We led six people to safety and first aid was administered by an ambulance crew on site.
"Because the boiler was in the bell tower we were able to allow the service to go ahead."
In October this year a report revealed that Kent was one of Britain's hot spots for deaths and incidents from carbon monoxide poisoning.
Only a third of UK homes have a carbon monoxide alarm! - 02/11/2011
Only a third of UK homes have a carbon monoxide alarm and just one person in five realises the gas can kill, according to a study.
Researchers found 63% of homes do not have a detector despite this being the best way to detect the colourless, tasteless and odourless gas.
It revealed 78% of people in the UK do not know that the gas can kill, despite it being responsible for at least 50 deaths and 4,000 needing hospital treatment last year.
Vikki Courtman's boyfriend Robert died of carbon monoxide poisoning in 2006 after his chimney flue was blocked.
"He rang me on the Saturday to tell me he had flu-like symptoms, he had a headache, he really didn't feel very well and was feeling feverish," she told Sky News.
The following day a family friend broke into the house after Robert failed to answer repeated phone calls and he was found dead in his bed.
"The police got involved, we had to wait three months for the autopsy to confirm the reason for his death.
"That was horrible for his mum, his dad and his brother, and for me to not be able to put him to rest.
"It's a massive problem and the awareness of carbon monoxide is by no means good enough."
Christine McGourty of Carbon Monoxide - Be Alarmed! said: "We are urging people to go out and buy an alarm now - but there are also two simple steps we'd like the Government to take.
"Firstly, building regulations should be amended so that new homes come with alarms already installed. Secondly, providing an alarm should be part of a landlord's annual gas safety inspection."
Carbon monoxide is produced when fuels such as gas, oil, charcoal, coal and wood do not burn fully.
The most common cause of problems is when appliances such as a boiler or cooker are installed incorrectly or poorly maintained.
Carbon monoxide can also build up when flues, chimneys or vents are blocked.
Source: http://news.sky.com/home/uk-news/article/16099706
SAFE Fire Direct Introduce the New Aico EI208W Carbon Monoxide Alarm: - 31/10/2011
SAFE Fire Direct now stock the NEW Aico EI208W Carbon Monoxide Detector & Alarm from the new range of Aico Carbon Monoxide Detectors released in 2011.
The alarm has a high performance proven electrochemical sensor to sense CO presence. Each sensor is individually calibrated and tested in CO gas on assembly to ensure accuracy and come with a complete 5 year warranty.
For more information click here.
When you change your clock, test your smoke alarm! - 24/10/2011
Fire Kills is urging everyone to test their smoke detectors in their home when they change their clocks this weekend. The British Summer time ends on 30th October 2011, the cold and dreary nights of winter are on their way!
Why not take a few moments to test your smoke alarm at the same time you change the clocks?
According to Fire Kills, You’re more than four times as likely to die in a fire without a working smoke alarm.
Testing your smoke alarm only takes a minute, but could save your life. All of our staff at SAFE Fire Direct will be testing their smoke alarms when they change the clocks this weekend.
Will you?
The campaign is led by the video ‘British Summer Time comes to an end soon. Make sure you don't.’ Watch the full 42 second YouTube video below;
Warning over rise in carbon monoxide fatalities - 14/10/2011
According to a report by the Gas Safety Trust, the number of fatalities from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning has more than trebled in the UK.
Twenty-five people died as a result of CO poisoning in a 12-month period to 30 June, compared with seven deaths the previous year.
However the number of people affected by CO fell from 145 to 80, the Carbon Monoxide Hotspot Report 2011 said:
Inhaling CO, which is colourless and odourless, reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen.
Faulty central heating systems, gas appliances and fires, blocked flues and chimneys can result in CO poisoning.
Statistically, Wales experienced the most poisoning incidents but taking the population into account, Devon was the top hot spot with five incidents which resulted in two fatalities.
Seven people died in Northern Ireland, while Essex was the only one of the six top hot spots to escape a fatality.
More than half (58%) of the incidents occurred between November and February, however there were also cases in the summer involving camping equipment and fires.
In August, two adults and three children were rescued from their tent at a camping park near Newquay, after being overcome by carbon monoxide fumes from a barbecue.
The Gas Safety Trust report contains figures of incidents gained from media reports, but it has warned that the real figures could actually be higher.
Warning Over Rise in Carbon Monoxide Fatalities - 14/10/2011
According to a report by the Gas Safety Trust, the number of fatalities from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning has more than trebled in the UK.
Twenty-five people died as a result of CO poisoning in a 12-month period to 30 June, compared with seven deaths the previous year.
However the number of people affected by CO fell from 145 to 80, the Carbon Monoxide Hotspot Report 2011 said:
Inhaling CO, which is colourless and odourless, reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen.
Faulty central heating systems, gas appliances and fires, blocked flues and chimneys can result in CO poisoning.
Statistically, Wales experienced the most poisoning incidents but taking the population into account, Devon was the top hot spot with five incidents which resulted in two fatalities.
Seven people died in Northern Ireland, while Essex was the only one of the six top hot spots to escape a fatality.
More than half (58%) of the incidents occurred between November and February, however there were also cases in the summer involving camping equipment and fires.
In August, two adults and three children were rescued from their tent at a camping park near Newquay, after being overcome by carbon monoxide fumes from a barbecue.
The Gas Safety Trust report contains figures of incidents gained from media reports, but it has warned that the real figures could actually be higher.
Gas Body Urges Appliance Checks In Cornwall After Tragic Carbon Monoxide Poisoning - 13/09/2011
People in Cornwall are being warned to get gas appliances checked by the UK's official gas registration body.
The call comes after a woman from north Cornwall suffered low-level Carbon Monoxide poisoning which has lead to the woman having to use a wheelchair for the rest of her life.
Joyce Bridgewater, from Camelford, was poisoned by low level Carbon Monoxide over a period of 10 years. She lived with low levels of Carbon Monoxide, and the colourless odourless gas slowly poisoned her.
Ms Bridgewater said: "I had a heart attack in 2002. I was dreadfully ill between 2002 and 2005. I realised the air quality had a bearing on how well I felt.
"I looked up the symptoms I had, with dizziness, sickness, and it said on the internet it was possibly carbon monoxide poisoning."
Soon after she was officially diagnosed.
She said: "I kept going home to a poisonous atmosphere. I still suffer from post-traumatic stress. When I speak about it, it brings it all back. But I do have a quality of life that is so much better now."
The Gas Safe Register is calling for people to get their gas appliances checked before temperatures begin to fall this winter.
It said one in 10 homeowners in the South West admitted their gas appliances had never been serviced.
Campers Rescue Five From Carbon Monoxide Tent - 30/08/2011
A family of five were rescued from their tent after being overcome by carbon monoxide fumes from a barbecue.
They were taken to hospital after emergency services were called to Trevella Caravan Park at Crantock, near Newquay, Cornwall, just after midnight.
The two adults and three children have now been released from hospital.
Firefighters warned of the dangers of having a barbecue inside a tent and said the outcome could have been very different.
Shaun Taylor, the watch manager at Newquay Fire Station, said: "We found that the occupants of the next tent had helped in rescuing the family from the tent.
"We discovered they had a lit barbecue inside the tent. Any item that produces heat or vapours can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. That was our concern.
"If the dad hadn't woken up and the people in the next tent hadn't got the people out we would have been looking at a very sad and serious situation this morning."
Barry Templeton, the general manager at the camping park, said the family arrived back at the site around 07:00 BST.
He said it was the first incident of its kind on the site.
"The well-being of people at Trevella is our concern. I think our first response would be to put a warning notice in the welcome pack highlighting the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning."
For more information on this story, please
click here
Richard Branson Island Holiday Home Burns Down - 23/08/2011
Oscar-winning actress Kate Winslet is among 20 people who have escaped a fire at the Necker Island luxury home of Sir Richard Branson.
Sir Richard said he believes the fire began when lightning hit the house, in the British Virgin Islands.
"Around 20 people were in the house and they all managed to get out and they are all fine," he added.
Sir Richard's 90-year-old mother Eve and his 29-year-old daughter Holly were also staying at the property, named the Great House, when the blaze broke out in the early hours of Monday.
He said Winslet had helped to carry his mother to safety.
"We had a really bad tropical storm with winds up to 90mph [145km/h]," said Sir Richard, who was staying at a nearby property with his wife Joan and son Sam, 25, at the time.
Sir Richard thanked Kate Winslet for helping to rescue his mother
"A big lightning storm came around 04:00 and hit the house.
"My son Sam and nephew Jack rushed to the house and helped get everyone out, and many thanks to Kate Winslet for helping to carry my 90-year-old mum out of the main house to safety.
"The main house is destroyed and the fire is not yet completely out."
"My office was based in the house and I have lost thousands of photographs and my note books which is very sad. But all family and friends are well - which in the end is all that really matters."
"It's very much the Dunkirk Spirit here," said Sir Richard.
"We will rebuild the house as soon as we can.
"There's a lot of damage but we'll create something even more special out of the ruins."
Two Dead In St Leonards Holiday Park Caravan Fire - 17/08/2011
Tragically two people have died from a fire that broke out at a caravan holiday park in East Sussex on Saturday Night. They have been named as married couple Pauline Thompson, 49, and John Thompson, 50.
A spokesman for Combe Haven Caravan Park said two employees and a neighbouring caravan owner tried to tackle the blaze before crews arrived.
He said: "Our team members and guests are shocked by this tragic accident.
"The owners of the caravan were valued and popular members of the community at Combe Haven."
The couple had been owners of the caravan since 2007, he added.
Police have said the deaths are not being treated as suspicious. The cause of the fire has yet to be established.
Croydon Care Home Fire - Sixteen People Rescued - 16/08/2011
Sixteen people were rescued from a fire that broke out in a care home in Croydon, South London causing severe damage to the building. Luckily no one was seriously harmed.
40 Fire Fighters tackled the blaze, in Leafy Way Croydon, the cause of the fire is currently unknown.
The London Ambulance Service took 10 people to hospital who suffered minor smoke inhalation and shock.
Three people were rescued through an internal staircase while three others climbed down a ladder, the London Fire Brigade said.
Residents of the home are currently in the care of the local authority
Man And Dog "Saved By Smoke Alarm" - 05/08/2011
An elderly man and his dog escaped from a ground floor flat in East Sussex after being woken by a smoke alarm early on Friday.
Fire crews were called at 01:56 BST and three pumps put out the fire which caused major damage to the block of flats in Cowley Road, Woodingdean.
The alarm could have saved the lives of residents said East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service (ESFRS).
Three people were taken to hospital and treated for smoke inhalation.
Firefighter Chris Baker from ESFRS said: "The man told me he was woken up by his smoke alarm.
"I've no doubt the outcome of the fire would have been far more serious if it hadn't been set off."
The last fire engine left the scene at 04:39 and the fire was thought to have started accidentally, said the fire service.
Chimney Flue Theft Causes Carbon Monoxide Risk in Hull - 04/08/2011
Grandmother Patricia Gillespie, 64, said she felt “sick inside” after learning that metal thieves had left her family at risk of fatal carbon monoxide poisioning.
Patricia started suffering flu-like symptoms after the chimney flue was taken from her house in Wareham Close, Hull, luckily a neighbour pointed out the theft of her chimney flue and she turned of her boiler straight away.
Mrs Gillespie said “ I’ve been told I have been very lucky” She said she had no idea the flue was missing. “ I am lucky it was summer time, if it had been winter time it would have been very dangerous I would imagine.”
“I was in shock when I found out, I just felt sick inside. The frightening thing is I have my grandson of four yeas old, and he occasionally has a sleep over. He's only little and if he'd have been with me, it's unthinkable”
"[The thieves] couldn't care less, they just want the money. They are putting people's lives at risk, it could have been murder.
Police said the thieves "could have been responsible for the death of an innocent woman due to their greed".
Humberside Police said a similar incident happened at a bungalow on Hambledon Close, Hull, last month.
Sgt Mark Peasgood said: "I would urge residents to report any suspicious incident in their area to the police and to stay observant to incidents of metal theft around their homes."
What to do if your Carbon Monoxide Detector goes off - 14/07/2011
Many people have a CO alarm installed in their home. But are unsure of what to do when their alarm goes off.
It is recommended by all leading manufacturers, that you follow the below steps:
- Immediately open doors & windows to ventilate the area.
- Turn off appliances, or other sources of combustion where possible.
- Avoid use of any naked flames or electrical switches
- Evacuate the property and do not re-enter.
- Contact the Gas emergency Service – 0800 111 999.
- Get medical help immediately for anyone suffering from headaches or nausea.
Calling the Gas Emergency Services Line -
It doesn't matter what time of day or night you ring the Gas Emergency Service - They have trained operators working round-the-clock waiting to take your call.
You'll be asked a series of questions designed to help build a picture of the reported gas escape or gas emergency. Getting accurate address details is very important to make sure they send engineers to exactly the right place. Your address and postcode are particularly important.
National Grid aims to attend all uncontrolled escapes within one hour, and all controlled escapes within two hours.
If your alarm does go of in the future, make sure you follow these steps as recommended by the leading manufacturers of CO alarms.
Man dies after suffering carbon monoxide poisoning from a barbecue - 08/07/2011
A man enjoying a biking weekend died from carbon monoxide poisoning after sleeping in his van with a barbecue he had packed away thinking it had gone out.
David Swallow, 29, was at a motorbike race meet in Scotland with his dad and had put on the portable barbecue at the end of the day.
He turned in for the night in his van where he and his dad had been using the residual heat from the equipment to keep warm - not realising the barbecue was still smouldering and releasing toxic fumes that would eventually kill him.
Devastated dad Bill found him suffering a seizure the next morning and revealed that his son had only replaced an old van with holes in a couple of months earlier - which could have inadvertently saved his life.
David, who was married to Ruth and lived in Cheadle, Ches., was rushed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary and Bill said it was only on the journey over that he realised that the barbecue could have been responsible for the condition of his son.
This is an extremely tragic story, which could of easily been prevented if a inexpensive Carbon Monoxide alarm was fitted.
BEKO Fridge Freezer Safety Warning Issued By the London Fire Brigade - 05/07/2011
London Fire Brigade is urging people to check if they own one of the models of BEKO frost free fridge freezers which are subject to a safety warning.
A week after a tower block caught fire in what was widely believed to be a blaze caused by a lightning strike, fire investigators have discovered that the fire was actually caused by a faulty BEKO fridge freezer that is at the centre of a product safety warning.
The London Fire Brigade believes the incident serves as an urgent warning of the potentially serious danger of a failure in the appliances that has been flagged up by the company as a cause for concern. It is believed there could be as many as 500,000 of the potentially faulty fridge freezers in homes and businesses across the country.
Fire chiefs are urging people to check if they own the particular models of BEKO fridge freezer which were manufactured between January 2000 and October 2006. Click Here for a full list. There are believed to have been 20 fires in the capital alone involving the fridge freezers since 2008. These fires have seen 15 people injured and one person die.
London Fire Brigade’s Assistant Commissioner for Fire Safety Regulation, Steve Turek, said:
“Any fire can be lethal but the London Fire Brigade is particularly concerned about this because fires involving any sort of fridge freezer develop rapidly and produce an enormous amount of toxic smoke.
“Expert fire investigators have had to work for a long time to confidently establish these faulty fridge freezers as the cause of a number of serious fires. Having established this link, we have worked closely with BEKO to ensure the public is kept safe. However, the Brigade urges everyone who has a BEKO fridge freezer to check it is not one of those highlighted by the company as potentially faulty. I would also urge everyone to make sure they have a working smoke alarm in their house.”
Flats evacuated after Carbon Monoxide leak in Battersea Rise - 10/06/2011
On the 7th June, at 2am, thirteen residents were evacuated from flats following a carbon monoxide leak in Battersea Rise.
Battersea Fire Brigade watch manager Simon Jenkins said: "High levels of carbon monoxide were detected within one of seven flats above shops on Battersea Rise."
"Residents were evacuated from the properties by fire-fighters wearing breathing apparatus and gas supplies to the property were isolated."
The poisonous gas was detected by a Carbon Monoxide Detector & Alarm, which woke one of the residents who called the Fire Brigade. Three fire engines, two ambulance crews and a British Gas team of engineers were sent to the scene, which was eventually cleared, and residents were allowed back in the premises at 4.45am.
This could of been a very different story if a Carbon Monoxide Detector was not installed!
Protect yourself by installing one of our Carbon Monoxide Alarms.
SAFE Fire Direct Introduce Product Review’s - 16/05/2011
SAFE Fire Direct continually strive to improve the service we provide; we take customer feedback very seriously and think it’s important to know what our customers feel about the products we supply and the service we provide; this is why we have introduced a new product review system.
You will be able to give any product you buy a rating out of 5 and also write a small review about the service you received and the product itself.
We understand the importance of customer service and appreciate the trust customers place in us to fulfil their expectations.
SAFE Fire Direct Introduce Double Sided Fire Exit Hanging Signs - 02/05/2011
Safe Fire Direct's product portfolio is now one of the largest in the UK; offering our customers over 300 individual fire safety products.
In our continued commitment to bring a wide range of high quality products, we have added a new range of Double Sided Fire Exit Hanging Signs.
Whilst we expand our portfolio we strive to give you competitive prices on all fire protection products. Our aim is to give our customers high quality products, at competitive prices. We compare our prices to competitors on a daily basis to ensure we are giving you great value for money.
Fire on the M1 Causes Travel Chaos - 18/04/2011
The M1 in north London has been shut following a fire at a scrapyard. London Fire Brigade, at the height of the fire, had about 40 firefighters tackling the blaze close to Ellesmere Avenue and about 50 people from nearby homes were evacuated.
The fire started On Friday and has caused travel chaos, not least to the thousands of fans that travelled to the weekends football at Wembley. The motorway is slowly being reopened, but due to the damage the fire has caused this may take some considerable time. The highways agency said they will not reopen the road "until it is safe to be reopened".
For more on this story Click Here.
SAFE Fire Direct Joins Facebook - 12/04/2011
SAFE Fire Direct have joined Facebook to keep you up to date with the latest news and products.
To follow SAFE Fire Direct on Facebook please click the Facebook link below and "Like" our page.
Protect Yourself and Your Family From Fire - 08/04/2011
The Government are currently running a fire awareness campaign, "Fire Kills" via radio advertisements, running on many of the nations favourite radio stations.
These are aimed at raising the awareness of the dangers of Fire in the home and the ways you can protect you and your family.
In a house fire, you may think smoke would wake you and give you and your family time to escape. But after just two or three breaths of toxic smoke, you're unconscious. Your lungs fill up and you can't breathe. It’s just like drowning!
The best way to protect yourself from a fire is installing a audible smoke detector. A correctly positioned & working smoke detector will sound a loud alarm which should wake you, giving you the precious time required to escape, and possibly saving a life.
SAFE Fire Direct have quality smoke detectors starting from as little as £5.59 + VAT. A small price to pay for “peace of mind!”
If you haven’t heard the adverts yet, please click here to listen.
SAFE Fire Direct Introduce the Honeywell SF450EN Carbon Monoxide Detector & Alarm. - 01/04/2011
SAFE Fire Direct have added the Honeywell SF450EN carbon monoxide detector & alarm to our already wide range of CO detectors.
The SF450EN is an easy to use and reliable self-contained Carbon Monoxide Detector & Alarm. Designed for use in all domestic environments such as homes, caravans and boats.
The SF450EN is widely regarded as the professionals choice of Carbon Monoxide Alarm and is the chosen unit of numerous major gas organisations including British Gas, energy companies, local authorities and housing associations.
SAFE Fire Direct Introduce Fire Log Books & Accident Report Books - 28/03/2011
Safe Fire Direct's product portfolio is now one of the largest in the UK; offering our customers over 300 individual fire safety products.
In our continued commitment to bring a wide range of high quality products, we have added a new range of HSE Books & Guides, including professionally printed Fire Log Books
and Accident Report Books.
Whilst we expand our portfolio we strive to give you competitive prices on all fire protection products. Our aim is to give our customers high quality products, at competitive prices. We compare our prices to competitors on a daily basis to ensure we are giving you great value for money.
SAFE Fire Direct now Stock Kidde Safety Products - 18/03/2011
Since 1917, Kidde has been a world leader in the fire protection industry. Kidde has a proven history of innovation and success, producing high quality products at competitive prices.
SAFE Fire Direct stock unique Kidde products, such as the Combined Carbon Monoxide & Smoke Detector.
All Safe Fire Direct products are selected with an emphasis on quality, and the new partnership with Kidde is a prime example of this. We strive to bring our customers a wide range or products from the leading brands in the UK.
Amey ask SAFE Fire Direct to partner them in their "Go Green - Poisonous Gas" Campaign - 11/03/2011
Amey is one of today’s leading public services providers, managing the vital infrastructure and business services that practically everyone, everywhere relies on.
Amey are contacting all of their 15,000 employees and members, to raise the awareness of poisonous gasses, such as Carbon Monoxide, and approached Safe Fire Direct to help.
Safe Fire Direct were pleased to help Amey with their campaign, and hope that this will help to raise awareness of the potential dangers of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in the home.
Installing A Carbon Monoxide Detector - 07/03/2011
Many people are unsure as to the best place to install their Carbon Monoxide Alarm but this guide should help.
It is a Department of Health recommendation, the following items of risk should all be protected by a carbon monoxide detector.
- Stoves
- Fires and Boilers
- Water Heaters
- Paraffin Heaters
- General Gas Wall Heaters
- LPG Gas Appliances in Caravans & Boats
- Sleeping Areas
Locating The Detector:
If you are only going to install one carbon monoxide alarm, this should be placed near sleeping areas, in an area that will be loud enough to wake up every person sleeping within the house.
Ideally alarms would be placed near sleeping areas and next to each potential source.
A Carbon Monoxide Detector should ideally be located:
- A horizontal distance of between 1 - 3m from the potential source
- The Detector should be at least 150mm from the ceiling if fitted on a wall.
- Detectors located in sleeping rooms or located in rooms remote from the fuel-burning appliance should be located relatively close to the breathing zone of the occupants.
- A CO detector should also be placed close to sleeping areas particularly if the risk is confined to that room, where the audible alarm is loud enough to wake up every person sleeping within the risk area.
- If the detector is fitted on a ceiling, it should be at least 300mm from any wall and any ceiling obstruction e.g. light fittings.
These instructions are a guideline, but installation guidelines can differ depending on the detector. It is recommended that you follow the instructions in manufacturers instruction manual supplied with all Carbon Monoxide Alarms.
BBC take things seriously; even on air! - 02/03/2011
On Wednesday 23rd January, during a live broadcast of the popular prime time television program, The One Show, the BBC broadcasting centre was evacuated due to a Fire Alarm sounding.
Live on air Alex Jones calmly said: “Oh, I think that is our fire alarm. We better go to a VT just in case. We’re going to pop out, you watch this VT.”
A BBC spokesman said that after investigation there had been no fire at the BBC studio in White City, but a handful of people had been evacuated.
She said: "The One Show went off air tonight due to a fire alarm. We apologise to viewers for the interruption and normal service was resumed on BBC One as soon as possible."
Presenter Ms Alex Jones later revealed the reason for the disruption with a post on her Twitter page.
"Somebody was warming their tea up and the microwave set off the alarm," she revealed on the microblogging website. "That's live telly for you."
Luckily in this case, there was no fire, but its great to see that the BBC took the alarm seriously and started to evacuate the building.
No Alarm should be ignored. If a fire alarm sounds evacuation procedures should be followed until the building is declared safe either by the fire brigade or a responsible person.
Test Your Smoke Detector if you have one. If you don't have one – You need one! - 24/02/2011
If you have an alarm but do not check it on a regular basis, how do you know if it is functioning correctly?
To keep your smoke alarm in good working order, you should:
Test it once a week, by pressing the test button until the alarm sounds.
Change the battery once a year (unless it’s a ten-year alarm like the Thermoptek or has an integral battery). If it has an internal battery, check the date that it was installed, and replace if necessary.
Replace the unit every ten years.
According to Directgov.co.uk You are more than twice as likely to die in a fire at home if you haven't got a smoke alarm. A smoke alarm is the easiest way to alert you to the danger of fire, giving you precious time to escape. They are cheap, easy to get hold of and easy to fit.
If you do not have smoke detectors in your home, your are putting yourself at risk. As a minimum you should have one alarm on each floor. But if you only have the one alarm then make sure it is in an area where it will be loud enough to wake everyone sleeping in the house.
SAFE Fire Direct have smoke detectors starting at £5.59 + VAT there is no excuse not to have one in your home.
EastEnders Highlight The Dangers Of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning - 18/02/2011
On Thursday 17th February, single mum Heather Trott in EastEnders was found unconscious, hardly breathing in her flat. Her faulty boiler was producing carbon monoxide fumes, the silent killer.
We at SAFE Fire Direct are hoping that EastEnders highlighting the dangers will raise awareness of carbon monoxide poisoning in the general public, as it seems many are still unaware of the danger that carbon monoxide poses.
Carbon monoxide is the result of incomplete combustion of all fossil fuels. It has no odour or colour and as a result can go undetected. The best way to protect yourself from carbon monoxide poisoning is installing an alarm near any possible source of carbon monoxide.
It is a Department of Health recommendation, the following items of risk should all be protected by a carbon monoxide detector.
- Stoves
- Fires and Boilers
- Water Heaters
- Paraffin Heaters
- General Gas Wall Heaters
- LPG Gas Appliances in Caravans & Boats
- Sleeping Areas
Make sure you do not end up in a situation like Heather's by installing a carbon monoxide detector, and ensuring all possible sources are serviced on a regular basis and in fully working condition.
SAFE Fire Direct Lower All Exit & Fire Exit Sign Prices - 16/02/2011
SAFE Fire Direct have lowered the price of All our Exit & Fire Exit signs in its continued commitment to drive prices down. Every Exit & Fire Exit sign's individual and bulk buy price has been decreased.
We compare our prices to competitors on a daily basis. Our aim is to give our customers high quality products, at competitive prices, and with the latest price cut on all Exit & Fire Exit signs proves our dedication to competitive prices once again.
SAFE Fire Direct Introduce FireAngel SI-601 Smoke Detector & CO-9B Carbon Monoxide Detector Combined Packs - 10/02/2011
The New combined Fire Angel SI-601 & CO-9B packs offer substantial savings for two of the best selling FireAngel products.
The Fire Angel SI-601 ionisation smoke alarm is a general purpose alarm suitable for use in most rooms in your home.
The CO-9B Carbon Monoxide Detector, has a class leading 7 year sensor life and is battery powered (supplied with: 2 x AA Batteries). Coming from the new range of FireAngel CO Alarms it uses the latest technology to fight this silent killer.
Protect your property with two high quality life protection units from Fire Angel whilst making a great saving compared to individual unit costs.
SAFE Fire Direct expand our Health & Safety Equipment range - 24/01/2011
SAFE Fire Direct have introduced more products to its Health & Safety Equipment Range; these include Eye Wash Kits, Burn Kits & The Car Safety Equipment Pack.
Safe Fire Direct in its continued commitment to drive prices down, is lowering the price of all First Aid Kits this year.
Safe Fire Direct's product portfolio is now one of the largest in the UK; offering our customers over 300 individual fire safety products.
Fire Extinguisher Prices Slashed.... Again! - 11/01/2011
SAFE Fire Direct have slashed its Fire Extinguisher prices once again. As the UK's leading supplier of fire safety products we are able to offer our customers the most competitive prices on the Net.
We compare our prices on a daily basis ensuring we offer the best on high quality fire protection goods
Happy New Year - 01/01/2011
SAFE Fire Direct would like to wish our customers, New & Old, a Happy New Year.
SAFE Fire Direct Introduce the CO-9D Fire Angel Digital Carbon Monoxide Detector - 13/11/2010
SAFE Fire Direct introduce the Fire Angel CO-9D Digital Carbon Monoxide Detector, the latest from the CO range from Fire Angel. The digital screen shows exact readings of Carbon Monoxide from 1ppm giving homeowners complete piece of mind, whilst also having a handy ambient temperature display.
SAFE Fire Direct Introduce Fire Angel Carbon Monoxide Detectors - 10/09/2010
The CO9B & CO9X Carbon Monoxide Detectors from FireAngel are now available to buy online from SAFE Fire Direct. These two Carbon Monoxide detectors are part of a new generation of domestic life safety products from FireAngel , which combines the latest technology and innovative design to provide an aesthetically pleasing and effective contribution to your home safety. Not only are they ground breaking in terms of technology, but they are great value for money.
SAFE Fire Direct now offer Home/Landlord/Tenant Packs giving customers a one stop shop and substantial savings on fire safety. - 20/08/2010
SAFE Fire Direct now offer fire safety packs for home owners, landlords and tenants. These packs contain everything to meet current regulations and fire safety needs, whilst also offering great savings! The packs include a Fire Extinguisher & Blanket, Carbon Monoxide/Smoke Detector and Signage. The packs are available for next day delivery and are unique to Safe Fire Direct.
SAFE Fire Direct send out FREE Smoke Detectors - 13/08/2010
As part of our special promotions we are giving away a FREE Micro 300 Smoke Detector with All New orders over £50 net (exc. Carriage & Vat). This offer is valid until 20th August 2010.
SAFE Fire Direct To Stock Aico Fire Safety Products. - 16/07/2010
SafeFireDirect are proud to announce a new partnership with Aico.
Aico are part of EI Electronics, the UK’s leading residential fire detection company and Aico are also a market leader in providing the very best battery and mains powered Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarms.
Aico offer high quality and extremely reliable, mains-powered Optical/Ionisation Smoke Detectors & Heat Detectors. These are available with a choice of conventional battery or unbeatable 10 year plus Lithium cell back-up technology.
All Safe Fire Direct products are selected with an emphasis on quality, and the new partnership with Aico is a prime example of this.
Aico products will be available to buy shortly online with us.
Fire Extinguisher Prices Slashed - 18/06/2010
SAFE Fire Direct strive to bring you competitive prices on all of your fire protection needs and we have lowered the cost of our wide range of high quality Fire Extinguishers.
We compare our prices to competitors on a daily basis. Our aim is to give our customers high quality products, at competitive prices, the price cut on our fire extinguishers proves our dedication to competitive prices.