Hertfordshire businesses are being encouraged not to leave fire doors open during national safety week.
The county branch of the Federation of Small Businesses is speaking out in support of Fire Door Safety Week starting on Monday.
In a recent survey among fire risk assessors, 80 per cent of escape routes were obstructed while 65 per cent of fire doors were wedged open.
Pam Charman, chairman of the Hertfordshire branch, said: “Fire doors are a crucial part of a building's defences because flames – but especially smoke – can spread so quickly that people can be overwhelmed.
“Fire Door Safety Week helps to remind people, and especially businesses, that fire doors aren't there for decoration, they have a role in protecting people's lives and property. We can't think it won't happen to us because accidents happen. It's better to be safe than sorry.”
To find out about other aspects of the campaign, including the do's and don'ts of fire doors, visit http://firedoorsafetyweek.co.uk
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