Leaflets sent to high-rise residents in bid to avoid repeat of Grenfell disaster

The Scottish Government has published a fire safety advice leaflet to prevent another incident like the Grenfell Tower disaster in London.

Published on Tuesday, the leaflets will be distributed to tenants in high-rise buildings as well as the people responsible for the properties across 15 local authorities.

In conjunction with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, the Government developed the advice in the wake of the Grenfell Tower fire in 2017, which caused the deaths of 72 people.

As well as telling residents how best to prevent a fire, the leaflets also instruct people on what to do if a blaze does break out.

When a fire starts in a different flat, residents are advised to remain in their homes with the front door closed, as most modern high rises are designed to stop the spread of fire.

If the fire is in or close to their flat, residents are advised to leave or to find a safe room'' with a window.

Community Safety Minister Ash Denham said: "The tragic events at Grenfell Tower emphasised how important building and fire safety is.

"Although we already have stringent regulations in place, we are determined to do everything we can to strengthen the safety of those living in high-rise buildings.

"The information leaflets for residents will set out clearly and simply the steps they can take to help prevent fires and the ways people can best ensure their own safety as well as that of relatives and neighbours.''

She added: "It is important that those responsible for fire safety in high-rise buildings also have the most relevant, up to date information.

"That is why we are also publishing a single source of guidance covering general fire safety and fire risk assessments.

"We must all play our part in preventing and reducing the impact of fires.

"I hope these new fire safety guidance documents can help further reduce the risks in order to keep our communities safe.''

Assistant chief officer Ross Haggart, the fire service's director of prevention and protection, said: "These leaflets and guidance documents will build on the partnership work already undertaken in Scotland since the Grenfell Tower tragedy to strengthen the safety of those living in high-rise buildings.

"We continue to work with our communities to ensure that everyone knows what to do in the event of an emergency.

"Our priority will always be to prevent harm in our communities and save lives, and our advice is based on effective fire safety in high-rise premises."

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