South Swindon MP Robert Buckland toured Swindon's tower blocks yesterday to ensure that everything is being done to ensure the safety of residents.
This comes after the fire at Grenfell Tower in London last week that claimed 79 lives which has seen councils across the UK carrying out rigorous safety checks.
He said: “The full enormity of the disastrous fire at Grenfell Tower in London is still sinking in. The emergency services responded with great levels of dedication and professionalism. We are fortunate for their service and we owe them gratitude.
“The local community showed great compassion and resolve, acting quickly to give much-needed help in an inspiring way.
“The Prime Minister ordered immediate action to help victims’ relatives and the survivors, which includes a £5million emergency fund to meet immediate needs such as clothing and food, with more funds available if required. The priority has to be that those affected are found a home nearby and a three- week deadline has been issued for this.
“It is important to ensure that the reasons for this tragedy are examined quickly, which is why a Public Inquiry has been ordered. The Inquiry's findings will be carried out.
“The government has ordered immediate testing of the Hotpoint fridge-freezer model that was involved in the Grenfell fire.
“Anyone who has a white Hotpoint fridge freezer model number FF175BP or graphite fridge freezer model number FF175BG should register their appliance with the manufacturer to receive any updates. These models were manufactured between March 2006 and July 2009 models but discontinued in 2009. Owners should ring 0800 316 3826 or visit the Hotpoint website.
“All Councils have also been ordered to complete urgent safety checks on all high rise blocks, I have been in close contact with Mike Ash who is the Head of Housing at Swindon Borough Council since the fire to ensure that residents of Swindon who live in similar accommodation are safe in their homes and with the involvement of the Fire Authority, these checks are happening.
“We currently have eight council-owned high-rise blocks of flats in Swindon. I have been informed that the external façade of all our high-rise blocks is made of non-combustible material.
“Council Leader, David Renard, was quick to reassure residents following the Grenfell fire that there are extremely robust procedures in place. Fire risk assessments are updated regularly and monthly checks are carried out on all fire doors and dry risers to ensure they are in full working order. Fire alarms are tested weekly and tests are regularly carried out to ensure all lifts and communal doors are operating correctly. Swindon Borough Council has an excellent relationship with Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service and appropriate evacuation strategies have been developed for all properties.
“I have visited our high-rise blocks here in Swindon today to provide some reassurance to tenants and see first-hand the fire safety measures we have in place.”
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