Wednesday 15th October 2025

Every year, thousands of British travellers set off on adventures. They backpack through South America. They caravan through the Scottish Highlands. But there’s an invisible danger that claims over 50 lives annually in the UK alone. That danger is carbon monoxide. And for one British family, it changed everything.

A Family’s Mission: The Hudson Foley Story and the Pack Safe Appeal

Hudson Foley was 24 years old. He went to sleep in a homestay in Quito, Ecuador but lost his life because of carbon monoxide poisoning from an undetected leak. 

Hudson’s death wasn’t just another statistic: it became a catalyst for change. His family established the Pack Safe Appeal in his memory. It’s more than awareness. It’s a movement born from loss. Cathy Foley and family transformed their grief into action. They’ve appeared on BBC Breakfast. They’ve partnered with The Safer Tourism Foundation. Because they don’t want any other family to endure what they have.

Their message couldn’t be clearer. Countries like Ecuador, South America and Australia don’t require carbon monoxide alarms by law. These are popular backpacking destinations. The accommodation Hudson trusted had no detection system. This isn’t negligence. It’s a regulatory gap and a lack of education that leaves millions vulnerable.

Understanding the Hidden Threat: Why Travel Increases CO Risk

Carbon monoxide is the silent killer. You can’t see it. You can’t smell it. You can’t taste it.

And when you’re travelling, the risk multiplies.

The Perfect Storm: Small Spaces and Multiple Sources

Think about where you stay when you’re camping, caravanning or on a boat. You’re surrounded by potential CO sources:

• Vehicle exhausts from nearby cars and motorhomes.
• Portable generators powering campsites.
• Barbecues and camping stoves.
• Boat engines and onboard heating systems.
• Poorly maintained appliances in budget accommodation.

Carbon monoxide builds up faster in small, confined spaces. A tent, caravan or boat cabin can reach dangerous CO levels in minutes. Not hours. Minutes.

The Regulatory Lottery: Safety Standards Vary

The UK has strict regulations. We require gas safety checks, chimney sweeping and flue clearing. But these standards don’t follow you abroad. Your protected home environment stays at home. Only a travel carbon monoxide detector can fill that gap.

The Science of Travel CO Alarms: Not All Detectors Are Equal

Here’s what many travellers don’t know: your home CO alarm isn’t always designed for travel.

Travel carbon monoxide alarms undergo additional testing under BS EN50291-2. They’re subjected to movement, vibration and environmental conditions that could break standard alarms.

This specialised testing ensures these devices can:

• Function reliably during vehicle movement.
• Withstand temperature changes in tents and caravans.
• Resist humidity in marine environments.
• Stay accurate despite constant relocation.

Alarms certified to BS EN50291-2 have specific classifications. They’re either ‘suitable for camping/caravans/boats’ or ‘suitable for camping/caravans/motorhomes’. This isn’t marketing speak. It’s certification that ensures your travel CO alarm will work when you need it.

Essential Features of Modern Travel Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Travel CO detectors, like the UltraFire ULLCO10 with travel strap, have a minimal design with maximum protection.

Portability Without Compromise:

• Compact, lightweight design.
• Travel strap for securing to bags, tents or caravan fixtures.
• 10-year sealed lithium battery: no replacements needed.
• Clear LED indicators you can see in low light.

Reliability When It Matters:

• 85dB alarm.
• Kitemarked to BS EN 50291-1 and BS EN 50291-2 standards.
• Works in homes, hostels, Airbnbs and rooms with fuel-burning appliances.
• Separate test and silence buttons for easy maintenance.

Practical Protection: Choosing the Right CO Alarm for Travel

Different trips need different protection. So how do you choose the right CO alarm for travel?

For Backpackers and Hostel Stays: You need ultra-portable models with securing straps. Clip them inside your backpack during transit. Deploy them quickly in any accommodation.

For Caravan and Motorhome Adventures: Choose models certified for vehicular movement. Road vibration triggers false alarms in inadequate detectors. Don’t risk it.

For Boat and Marine Travel: You need alarms tested for marine environments. Boat-specific CO detectors must handle humidity and salt air. And they need to stay accurate.

Real Stories, Real Impact: Why Every Traveller Needs Protection

Sarah’s a gap-year student from Manchester. She shares her experience:

“I never thought about CO until I met a fellow backpacker. His roommate nearly died in a Thai hostel. Now my travel CO alarm goes everywhere. It weighs less than my phone charger but could save my life.”

The statistics back Sarah’s caution. We don’t have comprehensive global data. But documented cases show a pattern: travellers face elevated CO risk. Especially in budget accommodation and rural settings where safety standards lag.

Taking Action: Your Travel Safety Checklist

Before You Travel:

1. Buy a certified travel carbon monoxide alarm.
2. Test it and learn what the indicators mean.
3. Pack extra batteries if your model isn’t sealed.
4. Research CO safety standards in your destination.
5. Get to know the signs and symptoms of CO poisoning.

At Your Accommodation:

1. Set up your CO detector immediately.
2. Position it at breathing height when sleeping.
3. Check for potential CO sources nearby.
4. Never ignore an alarm: evacuate immediately and get help.

Supporting the Movement: We proudly support the Pack Safe Appeal. Get 15% off travel CO alarms with code HUDSON15 at checkout. We’re honouring Hudson’s memory and protecting future travellers.

The Cost of Complacency vs The Value of Protection

A quality CO detector for travel costs less than one night in most hostels. Yet it provides years of protection.

The UltraFire ULLCO10 has a 10-year warranty and battery life. That’s mere pence per day. Insignificant compared to the protection it provides.

Carbon monoxide doesn’t discriminate. It doesn’t care if you’re a seasoned adventurer or a first-time traveller. Your destination doesn’t matter. Neither does your budget or accommodation type.

But you can take control. Carry a certified travel carbon monoxide detector. You’re not just protecting yourself. You’re joining a movement started by families like Hudson Foley’s. You’re ensuring every traveller has the chance to return home safely.

Don’t let your next adventure become a preventable tragedy. Explore our range of certified travel CO alarms. Take advantage of special pricing in support of the Pack Safe Appeal.

Friday 10th October 2025

Every year, families check into accommodation without knowing they’re missing a crucial piece of safety equipment. People pack first aid kits. People buy travel insurance. But there’s an invisible danger in hotels and holiday rentals: carbon monoxide.

The decision to carry a travel carbon monoxide alarm isn’t about fear. It’s about taking control of your family’s safety in unfamiliar surroundings.

Understanding the Carbon Monoxide Risk

Carbon monoxide forms when fuel doesn’t burn completely. It has no colour, no smell, no taste. In accommodation, it can come from:

• Faulty boilers or water heaters
• Blocked chimney flues
• Poorly maintained gas appliances
• Inadequate ventilation around heating systems

UK legislation requires CO alarms to be installed in properties with solid fuel burning appliances and in all rented homes anywhere in the UK if they have a fixed appliance. But requirements vary between England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. And internationally? Standards differ from country to country.

This creates uncertainty for travellers.

The early symptoms of CO exposure mirror common travel complaints. Headache. Tiredness. Nausea. Dizziness. You might assume it’s jet lag or unfamiliar food. This similarity makes carbon monoxide particularly dangerous in travel situations.

What Makes a Great Travel Carbon Monoxide Alarm?

Essential Certification Standards

When choosing a travel CO alarm, look for Kitemark certification. Specifically, you need devices certified to both:

• BS EN 50291-1 (for domestic use)
• BS EN 50291-2 (for caravans and boats)

This dual certification confirms your detector meets rigorous testing standards for various environments.

Designed for Portability

The best travel carbon monoxide detectors balance compact design with reliable function. The UltraFire ULLCO10 with travel strap, featured on ITV’s Good Morning Britain, was designed specifically for travellers. Its included strap allows secure positioning without permanent mounting.

Long-Life Power Sources

For regular travellers, sealed lithium batteries offering 10-year lifespans eliminate battery concerns. Models like the FireAngel FA3322 and UltraFire ULLCO10 feature built-in batteries designed to last the detector’s entire operational life.

Choosing Your Travel CO Detector

For Dedicated Travel Protection

The UltraFire ULLCO10 with Travel Strap stands out as purpose-built for travellers and backpackers.

Key features:

• 10-year sealed lithium battery.
• Dual Kitemark certification (BS EN 50291-1 and BS EN 50291-2).
• Supplied with travel strap.
• 10-year warranty.

This model addresses the specific needs of people who regularly stay in different accommodation.

Digital Display Options

Some travellers prefer visible CO level monitoring. Digital models provide real-time readings and additional features:

The Kidde K7DCO displays CO levels from 10ppm and includes peak level memory to record the highest CO concentration detected.

The FireAngel FA3322 combines a digital display with Sleep Easy technology, which prevents low battery warnings between midnight and 6am. It shows CO levels, temperature and warning conditions.

Both models carry the essential dual Kitemark certifications.

Budget-Friendly Protection

The Kidde K7CO and FireAngel FA3313 offer certified protection with replaceable AA batteries.

These models provide:

• 10-year operational lifespan.
• Dual Kitemark certification.
• Proven reliability.
• Lower initial cost.

They’re suitable for occasional travellers who want quality protection.

Extended Stay Solutions

For longer accommodation stays, consider the Firehawk CO7B-10Y or FireAngel FA3820.

Both feature:

• 10-year sealed batteries.
• Compliance with 2022 Welsh and Scottish legislation.
• Low-volume test functions for discrete weekly testing.
• Dual Kitemark certification.

Positioning Your Detector Effectively

Travel CO detectors require adaptable positioning:

• Place at breathing height when sleeping (typically bedside table level).
• Position between any CO source and sleeping area.
• Keep at least one metre from cooking appliances.
• Avoid bathrooms where humidity might affect operation.
• Test the alarm when you first arrive.

The portability of these devices means you can adjust placement based on each room’s layout.

The Broader Impact of Travel CO Protection

Carrying a travel CO alarm represents more than personal safety. It demonstrates the importance of CO protection to the hospitality industry.

When guests arrive equipped with safety devices, it highlights the value of proper CO detection. This awareness can encourage property improvements that benefit all future guests.

Regional Standards and Protection

The UK has strengthened CO alarm requirements in recent years:

• Scotland introduced new standards in 2022.
• Wales updated landlord requirements in 2022.
• Northern Ireland implemented new landlord regulations in 2024.

But these standards only apply within UK borders. Your travel carbon monoxide detector provides consistent protection regardless of local regulations.

Making CO Detection Routine

Integrate CO detection into your standard travel preparation:

1. Keep your travel CO alarm with essential documents.
2. Test it before departure and replace batteries if required.
3. Check your accommodation immediately upon arrival.
4. Position the detector appropriately for each room.
5. Know the alarm sounds and what they mean.

Consider purchasing a dedicated travel unit rather than moving home detectors. This ensures continuous protection at home and maintains travel readiness. It is also important to educate everyone in your party about the symptoms before you travel.

A Note on Product Selection

We stock various CO alarms suitable for travel, from basic models to advanced digital displays. Each product we offer meets strict UK certification standards. The models mentioned here represent different price points and features, but all provide the essential protection travellers need.

Your family’s safety shouldn’t depend on unknown accommodation standards. A certified travel carbon monoxide alarm offers peace of mind for less than the cost of airport parking.

We believe every traveller deserves proper protection. That’s why we offer comprehensive advice alongside our range of certified travel CO detectors. Find the right protection for your travel needs at Safelincs. Because returning home safely isn’t just about avoiding obvious dangers. It’s about preparing for the risks you can’t see.

Thursday 2nd October 2025

The Hidden Dangers in Outdated Fire Safety Advice

Behind every fire extinguisher purchase is a critical decision that could determine whether a small incident becomes a life-changing tragedy. Our investigation into modern fire safety reveals that much of what UK households and offices believe about fire protection is dangerously outdated.

The equipment gathering dust on your wall might not just be ineffective: it could make a fire worse.

Understanding Fire Classes: The Science That Saves Lives

You can’t fight every fire the same way. The fire classification system exists because using the wrong suppression method can transform a manageable situation into a catastrophe.

Class A fires involve solid combustibles: wood, paper and textiles that surround us daily.

Class B encompasses flammable liquids like petrol and paint.

Class C covers flammable gases.

Class D involves flammable metals, rare in homes but present in some workshops.

Class F specifically addresses cooking oils and fats. Electrical fires require their own specialised approach.

The consequences of misunderstanding these classifications are severe. Water on a cooking oil fire doesn’t extinguish it: the water instantly vaporises, creating an explosive spray of burning oil that can engulf an entire kitchen in seconds.

A Revolution in Home Fire Protection: Why Yesterday’s Solutions Fail Today

The Powder Extinguisher Problem

For decades, powder extinguishers dominated domestic fire protection. Marketed as ‘all-purpose’ solutions, they seemed to offer comprehensive coverage with minimal complexity.

Powder extinguishers do effectively tackle all common fire risks. However, in reality, they are not always the best choice for inside areas. When you discharge a powder extinguisher indoors, visibility drops to zero within seconds. The dense cloud disorients occupants, blocks escape routes and causes severe breathing difficulties. Children, elderly residents and those with respiratory conditions face particular danger.

The aftermath brings its own problems. Corrosive powder penetrates electronics, settles behind furniture and continues causing damage months after the incident. What seemed like salvation becomes a prolonged ordeal.

Water Mist Technology: A Breakthrough in Fire Suppression

Water mist extinguishers represent a fundamental shift in fire safety thinking. Using only de-ionised water dispersed as microscopic droplets, they address nearly every domestic fire risk.

The versatility is remarkable:

• Solid combustibles (wood, paper, textiles)
• Small cooking oil fires (up to 5F rating)
• Live electrical equipment (tested safe to 1000V at 1 metre)

Additionally, some water mist extinguishers will tackle flammable liquids (petrol, oils, paint) and flammable gases (propane, natural gas).

A single 3-litre water mist extinguisher can protect an entire floor. No confusion about which type to use. No toxic residue. No secondary damage to your home.

Critical Room-by-Room Protection Strategies

Kitchen Safety: This high-risk zone demands special attention. Heat sources, cooking oils, electrical appliances and potentially gas supplies create multiple fire pathways. Water mist handles most kitchen fires effectively, though households using deep fat fryers should consider adding a 2-litre wet chemical extinguisher.

Fire blankets provide essential backup. Positioned within reach but away from heat sources, they can smother pan fires without the splash risk that comes with liquid suppressants. Look for CE marking and Kitemark compliance to EN 1869: substandard blankets may actually fuel fires rather than suppress them.

Living Spaces and Home Offices: Modern homes are packed with electronics and lithium-ion batteries. They create new fire risks alongside traditional hazards from soft furnishings and paper. Prevention matters though. Never leave devices charging unattended, especially overnight. If a battery overheats, move it outside if you safely can. Keep a compact 500ml lithium-ion extinguisher nearby. Traditional extinguishers can’t tackle these battery fires. Our specialist extinguisher uses a non-toxic agent that rapidly cools the fire source and creates a barrier to stop heat and flames spreading from your smartphones, laptops and e-scooters.

Garages and Workshops: These remain the exception where powder extinguishers retain value. Better ventilation reduces breathing hazards, and the variety of risks (petrol, oils, welding equipment) suits powder’s broad effectiveness.

Transforming Office Fire Safety: Moving Beyond Compliance

The modern office environment has evolved dramatically, yet many workplaces maintain fire protection strategies designed for the typing pools and filing cabinets of decades past.

The Service-Free Revolution

P50 service-free extinguishers challenge every assumption about office fire safety. With corrosion-resistant construction and a ten-year warranty, they eliminate annual servicing disruption. Available in eco-foam and water mist variants, they protect against both traditional fires and modern electrical equipment.

For facilities managers, this means reduced costs, less administrative burden and superior protection. The extinguishers are also 100% recyclable and have a much lower carbon footprint than traditional steel alternatives, supporting corporate sustainability goals.

Strategic Placement: Beyond Box-Ticking

Effective fire protection requires thoughtful positioning. Place extinguishers near exits, in corridors and at reception areas where they’re visible and accessible. There are also rules about the travel distance to a fire extinguisher.

Server rooms with concentrated electrical equipment may benefit from CO2 units.

Kitchen and break room areas need the same careful consideration as domestic kitchens, with appropriate extinguisher types based on cooking facilities present.

Your fire risk assessment (a legal requirement) will determine specific needs based on your unique circumstances.

The Human Element: Knowledge That Makes the Difference

Training transforms equipment from decoration into life-saving tools. Everyone should know the PASS technique:

Pull the pin.

Aim at the base of flames.

Squeeze the handle.

Sweep from side to side.

Equally vital: recognising when NOT to fight a fire. If smoke fills the room, if flames exceed your height, or if your escape route is compromised, evacuation takes absolute priority. Property can be replaced. Lives cannot.

A Mission for Safer Communities

At Safelincs, we’ve dedicated ourselves to transforming fire safety from an afterthought into active protection. Our partnerships with national fire safety organisations, our work with the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) and UK Fire Services reflect our commitment to preventing tragedies before they occur.

We’re not just suppliers. We’re advocates for change, educators in prevention and partners in protection. Every product we offer, every guide we publish and every conversation with our customer service team serves one purpose: ensuring everyone stays safe from fire.

Taking Action: Your Fire Safety Transformation

Fire safety has fundamentally changed. The risks that existed in years gone by have changed, and the learnings from tragedies like Grenfell mean we are much more informed. Modern solutions like water mist and service-free P50 units offer superior protection with reduced complexity.

But equipment alone isn’t enough. Understanding fire classes, selecting appropriate tools, positioning them strategically and ensuring everyone knows how to respond: these elements combine to create genuine safety.

Review your current setup today. Replace outdated equipment. Ensure everyone understands basic fire response and how to spot a fire risk. Because behind every fire statistic is a family whose world changed in minutes.

Visit our comprehensive range of fire extinguishers and let our award-winning customer service team guide you towards the protection your home or office truly needs. Together, we can ensure that small incidents never become major tragedies.

Thursday 2nd October 2025

Water fire extinguishers represent one of the most fundamental and practical firefighting tools available today. These devices harness the natural cooling properties of water to suppress fires through multiple mechanisms that work together to eliminate the essential components of the fire triangle.

The primary mechanism involves heat absorption. When discharged onto burning materials, water absorbs tremendous amounts of thermal energy through both sensible heating and latent heat of vaporisation. This process rapidly reduces the temperature of burning materials below their ignition point, effectively breaking the chain reaction of combustion. The transformation of liquid water into steam requires approximately 2,260 kilojoules per kilogram, making it exceptionally efficient at removing heat from fire situations.

What Makes Water Fire Extinguishers Effective Against Organic Materials?

Water fire extinguishers excel at tackling Class A fires, which involve ordinary combustible materials such as wood, paper, fabric, and most plastics. The effectiveness stems from water’s ability to penetrate deep into porous materials, cooling both surface flames and internal hot spots that might otherwise cause reignition.

The cooling effect occurs through direct contact with burning surfaces and through the production of steam. As water vaporises, it creates a barrier of steam that helps displace oxygen around the fire, contributing to suppression through oxygen dilution. This dual action of cooling and smothering provides comprehensive fire suppression for solid combustible materials.

Water also creates a protective layer on unburned surfaces, preventing fire spread through pre-wetting effects. This characteristic proves particularly valuable in structural firefighting, where preventing fire extension becomes as essential as extinguishing existing flames.

Why Are Water Fire Extinguishers Unsuitable for Electrical and Flammable Liquid Fires?

Understanding the limitations of water fire extinguishers proves as necessary as recognising their strengths.

If possible, switch off the electrical equipment first before the water is discharged. One consideration is that water extinguishers could damage sensitive electrical items (a water mist fire extinguisher is a better option, as it is discharged as a fine mist and therefore causes less damage).

For flammable liquid fires, water’s density becomes problematic. Water sinks below most flammable liquids, failing to create an effective barrier between the fuel and ignition sources. Worse, the force of water discharge can spread burning liquids across larger areas, actually escalating the fire situation rather than controlling it.

Water can also cause flammable liquids to boil and spatter when the temperature differential is significant. This violent reaction can spread burning materials and create additional hazards for firefighters and occupants. These fundamental incompatibilities explain why fire extinguishers are classified by fire type, with water types designated explicitly for Class A applications only.

How Should Water Fire Extinguishers Be Applied for Maximum Effectiveness?

Proper application technique significantly impacts water fire extinguisher effectiveness. The discharge should be directed at the base of flames rather than at the flame tops, ensuring that water reaches the burning material rather than simply passing through the flame zone. This approach maximises the cooling effect on the actual fuel source.

For deep-seated fires in materials like upholstery or compressed paper, prolonged application may be necessary to ensure complete penetration and cooling. Operators should continue to discharge even after visible flames disappear, as internal combustion may persist and cause reignition if not thoroughly suppressed.

The spray pattern should be adjusted based on fire characteristics and surrounding conditions. Delicate spray patterns provide better cooling efficiency and reduce water damage, while solid streams offer greater reach and penetration for larger fires or outdoor applications.

Water fire extinguishers operate through scientifically proven mechanisms, making them indispensable tools for Class A fire suppression. Their effectiveness depends on proper selection, application, and understanding of their capabilities and limitations. When used correctly within their intended parameters, water fire extinguishers provide reliable, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective fire suppression for the most common types of fires encountered in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.

Wednesday 18th June 2025

Free Smoke Alarm Programmes in the UK

Fire services across the UK offer free smoke alarms to certain groups as part of their fire prevention strategies. These programmes aim to protect those most at risk from fire hazards. While availability varies by region, most fire services prioritise vulnerable households.

Who Qualifies for Free Smoke Alarms?

You may qualify for free smoke alarms if you belong to one of these groups:

• Adults aged 65 and over
• People with disabilities or mobility issues
• Those with visual or hearing difficulties
• Low income households
• Families with young children
• People living alone

Free Smoke Alarms from Fire Services

Most fire services use our online Home Fire Safety Check to triage for a home visit. Usually, fire services ask individuals, carers or third parties to complete this check first. The check scores the household to see how high-risk it is and refers them to the fire service to investigate or visit.

Free Smoke Alarms for Older Adults

If you are over 65, you have a higher chance of qualifying for free smoke alarms. Many fire services prioritise older adults because statistics show they face greater risks during fire emergencies. Some areas offer specialised alarms with strobe lights or vibrating pads for those with hearing loss.

Vulnerable Groups and Access to Free Alarms

You may receive free smoke alarms if you have disabilities that affect your ability to respond to fires. This includes mobility issues, sensory difficulties or cognitive conditions. Local councils sometimes work alongside fire services to identify and support vulnerable residents.

How to Apply for Free Smoke Alarms

To check if you qualify for free smoke alarms:

1. Contact your local fire service directly
2. Request a Home Fire Safety Visit
3. Explain your circumstances when booking
4. Provide details about any specific needs

The fire service will assess your eligibility based on local criteria and available resources.

What If You Don’t Qualify?

If you don’t meet the eligibility criteria for free smoke alarms, you can still purchase high-quality smoke detectors at reasonable prices. Safelincs offers a wide range of smoke alarms suited to various needs, from basic models to interconnected systems.

Remember that investing in proper smoke alarms significantly increases your chances of escaping a fire safely. All homes should have working smoke alarms on each floor, regardless of whether they were obtained for free or purchased.

For more information about smoke alarm options suitable for your specific needs, browse our range of smoke, fire and gas detectors at Safelincs.

Wednesday 18th June 2025

Understanding Vertical Evacuation Equipment

When you manage a building, you need to ensure everyone can exit safely during an emergency. For people with mobility challenges or higher dependencies, vertical evacuation becomes particularly important. Vertical evacuation refers to the process of moving people down or sometimes up staircases when lifts cannot be used during emergencies.

As the responsible person for fire safety, you must provide adequate evacuation methods for all building occupants, including those with mobility impairments. Proper equipment makes this possible and helps you meet legal obligations while keeping everyone safe.

Legal Requirements for Vertical Evacuation

Under current legislation, you have a legal obligation to ensure all building occupants can evacuate safely during an emergency. This includes people with mobility impairments who cannot use stairs without assistance.

You must comply with fire safety regulations, health and safety laws and equal opportunity requirements. These stipulate that suitable evacuation plans and equipment must be in place to assist people with higher dependencies.

Remember that lifts typically cannot be used during fire emergencies, making alternative methods essential for multi-storey buildings.

Types of Vertical Evacuation Equipment

Evacuation Chairs

Evacuation chairs are designed to transport people with mobility impairments down stairs during emergencies. These chairs use friction belt systems to ensure a controlled, smooth descent.

The Evac+Chair range offers several models suitable for various needs:

• Standard evacuation chairs like the 300H MK5 model feature safety belts, head restraints and simple operation mechanisms.
• Bariatric evacuation chairs such as the 500H MK5 can support users weighing up to 227kg and work on regular and steep 45° stairs.
• Multi-operator chairs like the 600H MK5 have additional handles allowing up to four operators, ideal for difficult access locations.
• Ascent and descent chairs such as the IBEX TranSeat 700H can move both up and down stairs, useful for evacuating from basement levels.
• Motorised evacuation chairs like the Power 1000H remove any physical strain on operators.

Evacuation chairs are classified as Class I Medical Devices, and their use is regulated under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER), requiring proper training for operators.

Evacuation Sheets and Sledges

Evacuation sheets and sledges offer alternative solutions for moving people who are bed-bound or have very limited mobility:

• Evacuation sheets attach to mattresses, allowing a person to be quickly secured and pulled to safety. These sheets work well in buildings with narrow staircases and limited space.
• Evacuation sledges provide more padding and support than sheets, with straps to secure the person during movement. They are particularly useful for wheelchair users who need additional comfort.
• Evacuation mattresses combine the functions of sheets and sledges, offering padding while allowing easy movement down stairs.

These options are commonly used in hospitals, care homes and other settings where people might be confined to beds.

Evacuation Chutes

For tall buildings where traditional evacuation methods might not be sufficient, evacuation chutes provide a safe descent option:

• These specialised devices offer controlled descent from height as secondary evacuation routes.
• They can be installed for escape from windows, roofs or external walkways.
• Chutes are particularly valuable in tower blocks and high-rise office buildings.

Specialist Equipment for Specific Needs

Some people require equipment designed for their particular needs:

• Bariatric evacuation equipment such as the Bariatric EvacMat and Bariatric Slide Sheet support the safe evacuation of larger individuals.
• Transfer slings assist in moving people from wheelchairs to evacuation chairs.
• Child and infant evacuation equipment including the Buscot BabEvac Evacuation Cot and TabEvac Evacuation Apron ensure the youngest building occupants can be safely moved.

Choosing the Right Vertical Evacuation Equipment

To select appropriate vertical evacuation equipment, consider:

1. Building layout – Note staircase width, steepness and any difficult access points.
2. Occupant needs – Assess the specific requirements of people who will need assistance.
3. Staff capability – Consider how many trained staff will be available to operate equipment.
4. Storage options – Determine where equipment will be stored for quick access during emergencies.

For complex buildings or varied needs, you might require multiple types of evacuation equipment to ensure complete coverage.

GEEPs and PEEPs requirements

Your General Emergency Evacuation Plans (GEEPs) and Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) directly influence evacuation equipment selection. GEEPs cover general evacuation procedures for people with mobility limitations, while PEEPs address the individual needs of specific occupants who require assistance.

Training and Maintenance

Proper training ensures equipment can be used effectively when needed:

• Training should cover both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
• Regular practice sessions help maintain operator confidence and ability.
• Safelincs offers certificated on-site training for up to six participants per session.

Keep evacuation equipment properly maintained and accessible:

• Store equipment in clearly marked locations using stands or storage cabinets.
• Use photoluminescent signs to highlight equipment locations.
• Conduct regular checks to ensure all equipment remains in working order.

Additional Evacuation Equipment

Besides the main vertical evacuation devices, consider supplementary equipment:

• Fire warden accessories such as high visibility clothing help identify those responsible for coordinating evacuation.
• Site alarms provide clear audible signals during emergencies.
• Escape hoods give users up to 15 minutes protection from toxic gases during evacuation.

Effective vertical evacuation equipment allows you to protect all building occupants during emergencies, regardless of their physical abilities. By selecting appropriate evacuation chairs, sheets, sledges or specialised equipment, you fulfil your legal responsibilities while ensuring the safety of people with higher dependencies.

Remember that equipment choice should be matched with proper training and maintenance to guarantee successful evacuation when needed. With the right approach, you can create a safe environment where everyone has a viable escape route.

Wednesday 18th June 2025

Understanding Electrical Fires

Despite common terminology, electricity itself does not burn. What we call ‘electrical fires’ occur when electrical current heats materials near cables or equipment, causing them to ignite. These fires typically start in cable coverings or foreign objects inside electrical devices.

When dealing with fires involving live electrical equipment, you need extinguishers specifically tested and approved for electrical use. Using incorrect extinguishers, particularly water-based ones without proper testing, can risk electric shock.

Fire Extinguisher Types Safe for Electrical Equipment

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Extinguishers

CO2 fire extinguishers have traditionally been the first choice for electrical fires. These extinguishers:

• Discharge non-conductive gas that smothers flames
• Leave no residue, protecting sensitive equipment
• Feature distinctive black labels

The main limitation of CO2 extinguishers is that the gas can disperse quickly, potentially allowing fires to reignite if the source of heat remains.

Powder Extinguishers

Powder extinguishers work effectively on electrical fires because:

• The powder does not conduct electricity
• They offer powerful fire suppression
• They work across multiple fire classes

However, powder extinguishers are not ideal for indoor use due to potential respiratory irritation and reduced visibility when discharged, which might block escape routes. They also leave disperse powder over a wide area so the clean-up can be difficult.

Water Mist Extinguishers

Modern water mist extinguishers represent a significant advancement in fire safety technology:

• Use de-ionised water that cannot conduct electricity
• Discharge through specially designed nozzles creating ultra-fine mist
• Have passed di electric testing to 35,000 volts
• Safe for use up to 1000V from 1 metre distance
• Create minimal water damage to equipment
• Do not form dangerous water pools that might conduct electricity
• Offer excellent cooling properties

Eco Foam Extinguishers

The latest generation of foam extinguishers includes eco-friendly options:

• Free from harmful PFAS chemicals
• Di electrically tested for use on live electrical equipment
• Effective across multiple fire classes
• More environmentally responsible than traditional foams
• Provide good fire suppression capabilities

What is Di Electric Testing?

Di-electric testing verifies that extinguishers are safe for electrical fires. This rigorous testing ensures:

• No electrical current flows back to the person using the extinguisher
• Testing occurs at extremely high voltage (35,000V)
• Certified extinguishers are safe at specified distances
• Safety limitations (typically 1000V maximum and 1-metre minimum distance)

This certification is crucial when selecting extinguishers for areas with electrical equipment.

Safety Considerations for Electrical Fires

When selecting fire extinguishers for electrical equipment, consider:

• The types of electrical equipment in your building
• Potential fire risks from computers, printers, kitchen appliances
• The need for extinguishers that will not damage sensitive equipment
• Ensuring extinguishers are placed near higher-risk areas

Remember that when liquid extinguishers are used on electrical equipment, the electrical supply often cuts off automatically as fuses trip. This reduces but does not eliminate risk.

Choosing the Right Fire Extinguisher

For optimal protection against electrical fires, consider:

CO2 Extinguishers: Best for server rooms and areas with sensitive electrical equipment.

Water Mist Extinguishers: Excellent all-rounders that provide protection for fires involving electrical equipment while causing minimal damage.

Eco Foam Extinguishers: Good choice for areas with mixed fire risks, including electrical components.

The right fire extinguisher improves safety outcomes and protects valuable equipment. While CO2 extinguishers remain popular for electrical fires, newer technologies like water mist offer effective alternatives with additional benefits.

For your business or home, assess all potential fire risks, including electrical equipment such as laptops, printers and kitchen appliances, when planning your fire safety strategy.

As the UK’s leading fire safety company, Safelincs offers a complete range of extinguishers suitable for electrical equipment, backed by award-winning customer service and fire safety expertise.