A detection and alarm system can significantly reduce the likelihood of a fire developing in a house, with a 75% reduction in risk.
A conference organised by TECNIFUEGO revealed that 10% of homes without smoke alarms experience casualties. The speakers emphasised the importance of responsible equipment maintenance and the necessity of regular inspections to minimise the consequences of fire. Furthermore, they recommended amending legislation to enhance security, as well as launching a comprehensive awareness campaign to educate the public about this risk and provide guidance on how to respond and what protective measures are available.
A roundtable discussion on “Hogares seguros frente a los incendios. Víctimas Cero” [Fire-safe homes: Zero Casualties in English] was held, with several experts. The event was held at the UNE headquarters in Madrid and organised by TECNIFUEGO, the Spanish Association of Fire Protection Companies. Among other specialists, Antonio Tortosa, TECNIFUEGO’s Vice-President, and Javier García, UNE’s General Director, emphasised the importance of compliance with regulations and the value of a job well done based on design and quality standards in fire safety.
In his capacity as coordinator of TECNIFUEGO's Sectorial Committee of Detection Equipment Manufacturers, Lluis Marín underscored the necessity to adapt the rules and regulations to reflect evolving circumstances, including lifestyle, emerging risks, age and height, as well as recommended protection plans. He highlighted the importance of incorporating fire detection within the home, a practice already prevalent in other countries, “as a model for prevention and protection.”
Regulatory Changes
Among the topics discussed at the round table, moderated by Jon Michelena, director of Cepreven, was the need to introduce changes in regulations to increase protection. Rafael Reyes, from the Fire Department of the Community of Madrid, believes that the current regulations are insufficient and do not address fundamental aspects such as the correct use of fire extinguishers or the procedure for closing fire doors. Beatriz Martínez del Campo of Allianz advised that residents be trained in the use of manual fire-fighting systems, such as fire extinguishers and fire hydrants.
Lluis Marín indicated that the installation of smoke alarms can reduce the probability of a fire developing by 75%. Furthermore, he highlighted that most fire-related casualties occur in homes that do not have smoke alarms. It is also crucial to note that “there are various levels of protection, ranging from the use of domestic detectors to the installation of an EN54 system, which is typically required in common areas.”