Exam Pass Notes

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A Simple 6-Step Memory Aid

• Prevent
• Prepare
• Raise the alarm
• Protect people
• Communicate clearly
• Learn and improve

Fire Safety Duties and Local Plans

• Fire-safety legislation varies across the UK, but every care home must have a suitable fire-risk assessment, emergency plan, trained staff, maintained precautions, and local procedures.
• In England and Wales, the Fire Safety Order sets duties for the responsible person for relevant premises.
• Site-specific training is required because residents may need assistance during an incident.
• Staff must know the local alarm system, exits, compartmentation, evacuation method, available equipment, residents' support needs, and their own role in the plan.
• Scotland and Northern Ireland use different statutory frameworks, so follow local arrangements and employer procedures.

Hazards and Prevention

• Common causes include faulty electrics, overloaded sockets, unsafe charging, kitchens, laundry areas, smoking materials, oxygen, aerosols, emollients, clutter, and unsafe storage.
• Keep escape routes, fire doors, alarm points, extinguishers, and evacuation equipment clear and accessible.
• Do not wedge fire doors open unless an approved, alarm-linked device is fitted.
• Report damaged doors, alarm faults, blocked routes, scorch marks, electrical defects, and unsafe smoking arrangements promptly.

Residents and Evacuation

• Evacuation support must match current mobility, cognition, sensory needs, communication ability, oxygen use, and clinical condition.
• Some homes move residents to an adjacent fire-safe compartment first; others use different strategies determined by the local plan.
• Use evacuation equipment only if you have been trained to do so and follow the local plan.
• Drills and scenario practice should confirm that staff understand roles, routes, resident support needs, and night-time arrangements.

Emergency Response and Higher-Risk Issues

• If you find fire or smoke, raise the alarm immediately and follow the local procedure.
• When contacting emergency services, give clear information on location, the area affected, residents at risk, evacuation progress, and hazards such as oxygen.
• Fire extinguishers are for trained staff on small fires only, and should be used with a raised alarm and a clear exit behind you.
• Oxygen, emollients, smoking, aerosols, and other flammable substances require specific controls and clear handover when risks change.