Wandsworth fire chiefs have launched a new safety campaign, targeted at residents living in flats.
‘Know the Plan’ has been introduced following 41 fires in Wandsworth high rise buildings last year.
The figures follow a survey by London Fire Brigade, which found 60 per cent of people in the properties didn’t have an escape plan.
Half said they would leave their flat if there was a fire elsewhere in the block, which the brigade say is one of the most dangerous things to do.
The campaign is partly in response to recommendations by a coroner, at an inquest into the deaths of six people in a Camberwell fire in 2009.
With many more high rise falts set to feature on the Wandsworth skline in co,ming years the advice has never been more important
‘Know the Plan’ seeks to ensure landlords and housing providers act on their safety responsibilities.
It also aims to make sure people living flats, purpose built blocks and maisonettes know how to respond in a fire.
Andy Cane, London Fire Brigade’s Borough Commander for Richmond, said: "Living in a flat is not more dangerous than living in a house, but it’s important to know that your fire plan should be different.
"Flats and maisonettes are built to give you some protection from fire.
"Walls, floors and doors will hold back flames and smoke for a time.
"If there is a fire elsewhere in the building but not inside your home, you're usually safer staying in your flat unless heat or smoke is affecting you."
JOIN US ON FACEBOOK
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here