Fire risk checklist for domiciliary care providers
NFCC has developed a simple fire risk checklist, aimed primarily at domiciliary care providers for use when assessing the care and support needs of the people they support, or when reviewing their care. The checklist also provides advice, guidance and a link to further support.
Despite significant reductions over the last few decades, UK fire and rescue service statistics show that approximately 29,000 accidental fires still occur in UK homes each year. These fires result in approximately 230 fatalities and 5,300 casualties annually. This has an enormous toll on those involved, their families, and their local communities.
A significant percentage of these fires have common causes, and can be linked to a range of long-term health conditions and/or reduced mobility. A significant percentage also occur in the homes of people in receipt of care visits due to their conditions and vulnerabilities related to age, physical or mental health.
The growth of care at home and commitments made in the NHS 10 Year Health Plan will see more healthcare provided to patients in their own home or community setting. Multidisciplinary teams can provide in-person and technology-enabled care for people living with frailty, as well as cardiac, respiratory and other conditions. Whilst NFCC is supportive of this development, it also recognises the need for promotion of fire safety in a home setting. NFCC also recognises the benefits of fire and rescue service support to health and social care services.
In 2023/24, there were approximately 740,000 domiciliary care posts in England. Three quarters of these were providing direct care, completing visits to the homes of 614,000 people. An estimated total of around 820,000 people currently receive domiciliary care in the UK. NFCC believes that many future fires, fatalities and injuries can be avoided if carers are able to spot the fire hazards in these homes more effectively. This will enable fire prevention measures to be put in place either by the resident or their family, the care provider, or other agencies.
In England, Care Quality Commission (CQC) registered providers are required to assess and manage risks under Regulation 12 of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014. Similarly, registered providers in Wales (Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW)), Scotland (Care Inspectorate (CI)) and Northern Ireland (Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA)) will have similar obligations under devolved legislation. The use of resources like this checklist can help providers to assess and manage risks.
The fire risk checklist PDF can be accessed below. For further guidance, please contact preventionhub@nationalfirechiefs.org.uk
