No. The structure of our tower block flats is designed to afford a high level of protection in the event of a fire and to contain the fire in the flat where it started, long enough for the fire brigade to attend and take action; however, the windows are not designed to contain fire.
The External Wall Insulation (EWI) systems present on our tower blocks are non-combustible mineral-based materials with a concrete render and have a high level of fire protection to minimise the spread of fire.
Twelve of our tower blocks have gas supply. The safe installation and maintenance of gas supply in any building is something that we and the gas distribution networks treat with the utmost of seriousness, ensuring that they are compliant with all relevant technical and safety regulations to maintain public safety.
The safety performance of gas supply companies is closely monitored by the energy regulator OFGEM and the Health and Safety Executive. We also carry out our own annual checks.
Network gas risers—external and internal—and associated lateral pipework in our buildings are owned by the Gas Distribution Network (GDN), installed in accordance with Industry Legislation and Standards, and inspected and maintained at regular intervals by GDN, in accordance with Industry Legislation and Standards as well as internal Company Management Procedures.
We are visiting every flat in the tower blocks to fit a safety notice on the back of the front door. This will explain what to do if a fire occurs. It is in your interest to allow us to fit these when we call.
You can also help protect your home against fires by reviewing Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service’s advice about home fire safety such as regularly checking your flat’s smoke alarm, keeping corridors free, calling 999 quickly if a fire occurs, familiarising yourself with the Stay Put policy in the event of a fire and keeping fire doors closed.
You can also take extra care when cooking to ensure that pans are not left unattended. Double-check that you have turned the heat off and taken the pan off the heat when you have finished cooking.
For more information about fire safety in high-rise accommodations, please visit the Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service’s High Rise Living page.
Southampton residents can play their role in helping to keep their family and neighbours safe by completing Safe and Sound, Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service's personalised home fire safety checker.