Fire safety is vital in every single property. Whether it is homes and housing, workplaces, cultural venues, educational buildings, sports facilities, or any other building, it is vital to do everything to protect people. However, a new report last month finds there are serious concerns about ECSA properties. We want to have a closer look here, then you can rely on us if you need help with fire protection in Redcar and other parts of the North East.
A tragic accident
In January 2025, a man sadly passed away after suffering burns due to an accident while smoking in his one bedroom flat. He was living in an extra care sheltered accommodation (ECSA) property, a building with 36 flats, after a stroke in 2016 and subsequent health issues like limitations to his mobility and speech. This type of housing allows people to continue to live independently, but with round the clock support and care.
An inquest in to the incident made some alarming discoveries. As a result, a senior coroner has now sent a report to relevant stakeholders. This includes the Minister for Housing, Communities, and Local Government and National Fire Chiefs Council. It also went to the Care Quality Commission, Britain’s regulator for health and adult social care.
Crucially, the Prevention of Future Deaths report said action is necessary to save lives. There are key gaps in requirements for ECSA properties. Speak to us about fire protection in Redcar and other areas.
PCFRA
One of the most concerning discoveries during the inquest was the fact that a person centred fire risk assessment (PCFRA) was done in 2024. This is an important version of the FRA that has a closer look at an individual’s situation and ability to react if there is a fire. It is the ideal foundation for creating a bespoke plan for that person to ensure fire safety.
Critically, the PCFRA found the man was ‘high’ risk. He was a smoker, and there was evidence in the flat of burn marks on carpets, furniture, and clothes. However, there was no action, including fire mitigation/control measures or notifying a Fire Officer.
While a PCFRA was done here, the report finds that there are problems with the fire safety legislation. Worryingly, there are actually no formal obligations to do PCFRAs in ECSA buildings because they are private dwellings. Plus, the law is missing clear requirements for emergency equipment, staff competence, and reviews for these properties. It raises the chance of deaths in the future.
Discuss fire protection in Redcar with us
It will be interesting to see the response to the ECSA report. It’s likely there will be changes to close the gaps and improve fire safety. This is especially important in Britain with our ageing population and more people requiring assistance as they age.
If you need help with fire safety, you can rely on us. We provide a variety of services, including risk assessments, fire door inspections, alarms, and fire extinguishers. We’ve got experience working in different properties, including HMOs and commercial lettings, ensuring we acknowledge the specific risks in each building.
So, if you need some help with fire protection in Redcar or other areas in Teesside, speak to us. We’re flexible and organise services at the perfect times to suit you.
