Is There an Evacuation Plan for Your Block?

If you don't know the evacuation plan for your building, now is the time to find out. Would you stay put if a fire broke out in your block? As the first phase of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry report is published, the stay put policy used on the night of the devastating fire is under intense scrutiny.

Understanding the Stay Put Policy

The stay put policy has traditionally been the standard advice for residents in blocks of flats who are not directly affected by a fire. They are instructed to stay inside their homes with windows and doors shut, relying on the building's construction and fire doors to protect them until the fire service arrives. However, this policy was found to be ineffective during the Grenfell fire, leading to unnecessary loss of life.

Government Review of Fire Safety Advice

Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick recently announced that the government is reviewing the advice around the stay put policy. While expert consensus suggests it is valid for most tall blocks, there is growing concern about its application in certain situations.

The Logic Behind Stay Put

The reasoning behind the stay put policy is based on two main points:

1. The fire service needs unobstructed access to hallways and stairs to evacuate the building in priority order.
2. Opening doors can spread smoke and accelerate combustion, potentially endangering more lives by increasing air circulation and fueling the fire.

Grenfell Inquiry and Calls for Evacuation Plans

The Grenfell Inquiry is now urging the development of evacuation plans for all high-rise buildings. Maryanne Bowring, Managing Director of Ringley Group, agrees with this call and believes stay put may not be appropriate for all buildings, particularly if certain safety features, like sprinklers, are not in place.

A Shift in Fire Safety Policy and Regulations

The Grenfell Inquiry and Dame Judith Hackitt's review have highlighted the need for a fundamental shift in how tall buildings are designed, constructed, and managed with a clear focus on safety. This overhaul is urgently needed to ensure the long-term wellbeing of residents, and we await the outcomes with great interest.