Action To cut fatal fires

Fire Officers are offering free property inspections for landlords and letting agents.

Following increased accidental fires and fatalities this year in the Cleveland Fire Brigade area, the brigade are concentrating on Houses in multiple occupation to ensure fire safety standards are at the level required.

The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order came into place in October 2006, which states that fire safety in almost all businesses, commercial and non-domestic premises is the responsibility of the employer or owner.

Penalties for not complying with the law include a fine of £5,000 for each offence and/or a prison term of up to two years.

Barry Waller, Head of Fire Engineering said: "We have already been contacting landlords, property owners and letting agents in the local area. If anyone would like any further information or would like an inspection, please contact us on 01429 874109."