Fire Authority gives backing to calls for sprinklers

Fire chiefs are giving their backing to a bid to make the fitting of sprinklers compulsory in all new homes.

At a recent meeting of Greater Manchester Fire Authority, members agreed to support an Early Day Motion (EDM) proposed by Alun Michael MP, calling for a debate in the House of Commons regarding sprinkler systems in domestic properties.

Members are also encouraging people to sign an e-petition that seeks to make the provision of fire sprinklers a legal requirement for all new dwellings.

Chairman of the Authority, Councillor David Acton, said: "A significant amount of excellent work has taken place to reduce the risk of fire in the home. This includes providing smoke alarms and carrying out full Home Fire Risk Assessments.

"These have proved very successful in reducing the number of fire-related deaths, with 21 deaths recorded in 2005/06 down to 11 for 2009/10.

"However, whilst smoke alarms are an excellent warning system, sprinklers are proven in their ability to control a fire in its early stages, minimising risk and damage from fire.

"I am pleased that Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Authority is backing the introduction of legislation that makes the fitting of sprinkler systems in homes mandatory. I would urge people to add their support by signing the e-petition at: www.epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/4409."

E-petitions that receive 100,000 or more signatures may be debated in the House of Commons, recent example include petitions regarding the Hillsborough disaster and the cost of fuel.

The petition is set to run until August 8, 2012 and the Authority will be writing to Greater Manchester MPs requesting their support for the EDM.

In February 2011 the Welsh Assembly voted unanimously to introduce the 'Domestic Fire Safety (Wales)' Measure, which required the installation of sprinklers in all new domestic premises in Wales.

The Measure was initially brought by Ann Jones, Assembly Member for Vale of Clwyd, who had campaigned for three years for its introduction.