The agreement came about after the formation of the multi-agency Bariatric and plus size working group which was looking at how the NHS and Fire Service could work together to reduce risk in this client group.
The agreement has resulted in Fire Officers from the Prevention team in South Devon carrying out “Trigger point” training for NHS staff to help them identify and reduce the risk of fire in the patient’s home and refer them on to the Fire Service for free home fire safety visits.
The visit carried out by the Fire Service includes the fitting of smoke detectors and other equipment such as fire retardant bedding and extension leads where it reduces risk.
Patients are advised about how to reduce risk, bedtime routines and escape plans.
Dave Roddy, lead for the Fire Service said: “The working group was formed after an incident involving a plus size patient occurred in Torbay. The group meet regularly to work at improving partnership work and one of the outcomes has been this agreement.”
Dave went on to say that: “We are delighted to be able to receive referrals from NHS practitioners in Torbay and South Devon as they can really help us reduce risk to potentially vulnerable patients in their homes.”
Lorraine Webber, Associate Director of Nursing for Community Services at Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust, said: “The safety and wellbeing of our patients and service users is of paramount importance to the Trust. We are therefore delighted to be working in partnership with Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service to bring together the knowledge, skills and expertise of the fire service with our health and social care practitioners.
“This new way of working has enabled us to enhance the safety of vulnerable people within their own home and we look forward to continuing our multi-agency work to assist our patients and service users.”
Make the call to request free Home Safety advice call free on: now 0800 05 02 999. For any other fire safety advice, contact the Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue helpline on: 01392 872288 or visit our website www.dsfire.gov.uk
