Fire service works with HiS in staged evacuation

Homes in Sedgemoor worked in close partnership with Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service to stage a simulated evacuation of Westfield House, Bridgwater, on Thursday, January 25.

The training exercise brought fire crews from across the county to embark on an evacuation drill at Somerset’s highest residential block. The simulation saw six vehicles and crews from Bridgwater, Taunton, Cheddar, Nether Stowey and Burnham-on-Sea attending.

Neil Richards, Fire Safety Team Leader at Homes in Sedgemoor, said: “This simulation of a real fire situation is an invaluable way for us to check our fire safety arrangements and ensure we have everything in place to keep residents safe in all eventualities.

“Working with the Fire Service on such a rigorous drill will make us all better prepared in the event of a fire.  Whilst we hope this will never happen, the simulation exercise with the Fire Service is a great opportunity to ensure that we are delivering the highest standards possible.”

Residents were informed in advance of the drill and were an integral part in the success of the simulation, which involved a whole building evacuation.

An evacuation centre was set up in a neighbouring communal hall, where evacuees were able to have tea, coffee and other light refreshments.

Peter Hatch, Chief Executive at Homes in Sedgemoor, said: “Having built up an excellent working relationship with Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, Homes in Sedgemoor was delighted to support this hugely important high rise training exercise.

“Ensuring our customers’ safety is our number one priority and we hope that this exercise provides even more reassurance to residents.

“A huge thank you to the residents of Westfield House who gave up their evening to participate and to both Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service and the Homes in Sedgemoor team who joined in the exercise.”