Fire at Redbridge Towers is an important safety reminder

The incident, which took place in the lift lobby area, was safely contained by the communal fire door that had been installed as part of our ongoing fire safety programme. The multi-million-pound programme includes installing sprinkler systems, new front doors and communal doors, and fire stopping work in blocks of flats city-wide.

Although residents in the direct vicinity of the fire had to be evacuated, no one was injured, and no flats were damaged. This is thanks to the effectiveness of the fire door which did its job of withstanding the smoke and flames to ensure the fire did not spread.

Although the cause of the incident is still under investigation, it involved an item that ignited in the communal area. This serves as an important reminder to everyone who lives in a block to be fire aware. Please remember:

• To NEVER leave any items in communal areas
• Don’t let people that you don’t know into your building and ensure the entrance doors close properly behind you
• Report suspicious behaviour or criminal damage to the police
• Make sure you understand the fire procedures for the building. And if you have any questions or concerns contact us

Following the fire at Redbridge Towers, officers from Hampshire Fire and Rescue together with the council’s Building Safety Team and local Neighbourhood Warden held an open event at the block in April to meet with residents, answer questions and provide assurance. It is part of our ongoing commitment to resident safety.

Earlier this year we reported how we have worked with residents to publish our Building Safety Resident Engagement Strategy. This sets out how we work to keep all our buildings safe, and keep residents informed and involved about safety decisions. We have also established a tenants’ Building Safety group for local residents to discuss safety issues, raise concerns and challenge us about safety policies. Please get in touch if you would like to get involved.