SOLIHULL MP BACKS PARLIAMENTARY CAMPAIGN FOR FIRE SPRINKLERS IN NEW SCHOOLS

12.00.00am GMT Mon 4th Dec 2006

Solihull's MP, Lorely Burt is backing an all party campaign in parliament calling on Government to promote sprinkler provision in all new schools.

Mrs Burt first raised concerns about increasing instances of fire damage to schools through accidental fire and arson attacks after buildings were destroyed at Light Hall School earlier this year.

The LibDem MP has added her name to Early Day Motion 264 to persuade ministers to ensure that sprinklers are provided in all new school buildings.

Mrs Burt said:

"Fire damage is often caused deliberately and is not only dangerous and wasteful, but is also very disruptive of pupils' education.

"Over 2,000 schools each year suffer school fires of varying degrees, the majority of which are set deliberately by pupils, past and present. Figures from Zurich Municipal show that in the first six months of this year alone the cost of school fires in the UK reached £52 million.

"In order to curb the number of school fires in the UK, Government should encourage the installation of sprinklers in all new schools, and wherever possible, in those undergoing major refurbishment. Reduced fire insurance premiums, better fire alarms and cheaper construction materials where sprinklers are installed can make them a cost neutral option."

The DfES is currently reviewing its guidance on preventing school fires - Building Bulletin 100 - Designing and Managing Against the Risk of Fires in Schools - providing the Government with the perfect opportunity to promote sprinklers in all new schools.