Automatic Fire Alarm Changes – Online Fire Safety Session

We are changing the way that we respond to Automatic Fire Alarms in certain types of buildings as of 20 September 2024. 

RBFRS will stop automatically sending a fire engine when there is an automatic fire alarm notification in buildings such as shops, offices, leisure centres, sports grounds, libraries and health centres. A full list of all buildings affected is on our website. 

We are running this free online session to help owners of premises affected by this change, to understand the change and ensure that they are meeting their responsibilities under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

We are committed to working alongside local businesses to help improve your knowledge and levels of fire safety in our community and, in turn, collaboratively keep your residents, staff, clients and Royal Berkshire safer.

RBFRS will continue to attend automatic fire alarm notifications at schools, at higher risk buildings and where anyone sleeps, such as hotels, hospitals, care homes, houses, and flats. 

In all cases, an emergency response will continue to be sent to 999 calls and confirmed fires.  

These sessions aim to provide you with a better appreciation of:

• The Fire Safety Order
• The need for fire risk assessment
• The application of fire safety measures within your workplace
• Outline the fire safety audit process

The sessions will be presented online via Microsoft Teams by qualified Fire Safety Officers, and will last approximately 90 minutes. Please register using the online form.

If you have any specific questions, these can sent before the session. This will allow the presenting inspector to ensure the session runs smoothly and queries are answered.