What we do :: Our Approach

The Evidence

While the number of accidental dwelling fires and consequent injuries and deaths are decreasing, evidence shows that certain groups of people are significantly over-represented amongst these casualties. 

It is only by raising awareness of fire risk, and generating a wider understanding of the roles that people can play both in increasing fire risk and mitigating its effects, that communities themselves can truly support the work of the Fire & Rescue Services by beginning to take more responsibility for their own safety. 

Our Approach 

TARGET those most vulnerable/at risk from fire
ENGAGE to raise awareness of fire risk, risky behaviours and attitudes
DELIVER information, support and solutions

Target

Existing evidence and research indicates particular groups of people within the community are at greater risk from fire e.g. older people, individuals with mental health issues. However, not all individuals within these groups are necessarily at risk. For example, ageing is often associated with other factors such as mobility problems or sensory impairment - factors known to increase fire risk.  

We also know that most fires do not just ‘happen’. Someone’s actions or inactions (behaviour), usually cause the fire, the consequences of which can then be made worse by the way people engage with or react to it.  

It is these people that need to be reached and who are often also known to other organisations.

Engage

By engaging with communities, organisations and individuals we are able to raise awareness of the impact of human behaviour, conditions and attitudes on fire risk.

• We can embed fire safety messages within the community and empower them to share responsibility and create effective, sustainable interventions.
• We can work with organisations to more effectively target and reach those most at risk from fire.
• We can support individuals to apply fire safety messages to their own situation to mitigate risk. 

Deliver

Firebrake can deliver a number of solutions aimed at minimizing fire risk and will work with organisations and communities of interest to determine the most appropriate support. The delivery aspect of our work involves providing the means to enable others to share responsibility for fire safety. Our focus is on sustainability and ongoing engagement. Current materials include advice and guidance for support staff and a ‘checklist’ for individuals potentially at risk.