Denbighshire County Council and North Wales Fire and Rescue Service are joining forces on brand new initiative, aimed at improving the safety of tenants living in houses of multiple occupation (HMOs).

Those licenced to operate HMOs in the county will be receiving an information pack which outlines the various fire safety measures they should have in place to protect the well-being of their tenants. This will coincide with National Fire Door Safety Week which begins on September 25^th.

The information pack includes guidance on  means of escape from a property, fire signage and warning systems, fire detection systems, emergency lighting, maintenance and the production of fire emergency plans.

All licenced premises are routinely inspected for compliance and this year, inspections will focus on fire safety provisions, including fire alarm systems, fire doors and escape routes and exits. These inspections will begin in November.

Councillor Tony Thomas, Cabinet Lead Member with responsibility for Public Protection, said: “All licence holders and owners have a responsibility to protect their tenants, making sure that their properties are fully compliant with fire safety legislation.

“There is far greater scrutiny of fire safety issues, in light of the Grenfell fire and other more local tragedies.  We want to make sure that all landlords are fully aware of their fire safety responsibilities, they take those responsibilities seriously and help reduce the number of fire deaths in our region. By working together, we can make a difference”.

Kevin Roberts, Senior Fire Safety Manager, North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, said:  “Our fire safety officers work closely with building control bodies, building owners and local authority partners to ensure buildings meet the requirements of the appropriate building regulations and we help those responsible to comply with their legal obligations.

“It is also vital that people remember exactly what to do in the event of a fire so that they can protect themselves and their families - this is true in any type of property or building but particularly important for the more vulnerable members of our communities, such as the over-60s, under-fives and people with mobility issues.

“As a Service we are proud to be working in partnership with Denbighshire County Council to inform landlords and protect residents across the county.”