Reassurance for Jersey high-rise residents following London blaze

Wednesday 14 June 2017

Staff from Andium Homes will today visit 11 high-rise buildings in Jersey to offer reassurance to those shaken by the London tower block blaze.

Grenfell Tower in North Kensington became engulfed in flames in the early hours of this morning after a fire broke out on the second floor, reaching up to the floors above it. More than 200 firefighters and 40 fire engines were sent to the scene; it's not yet been established exactly how many people were injured or killed.

In a statement, Andium Homes, which is responsible for a number of high-rise blocks on the Island, reminded tenants that their safety is “paramount” to the housing provider.

24 Fire and Rescue staff, including four members of the volunteer team, will also be on hand, knocking on the doors of all 506 flats to promote their “stay put” message and to offer support.

The latest pictures from a huge tower block fire in North Kensington as dawn breaks over London. 200 firefighters are tackling the blaze. pic.twitter.com/nbA7FqhJHM

— BBC Breakfast (@BBCBreakfast) June 14, 2017

While the source of the London fire is yet to be confirmed and is likely to involve a lengthy investigation, Andium said that it would, “…continue to monitor the situation as it unfolds to understand if there is anything we need to review.”

“However, we are satisfied that our buildings and systems are safe.”

Jersey's Fire and Rescue Service this morning offered their solidarity to their London colleagues fighting the flames, as well as those involved. Station Commander Marc Le Cornu commented: “Our thoughts are with the victims, families and those that have been affected by this tragic incident as well as our emergency services colleagues who are still dealing with this incident.”

He stated that it would be “wrong to speculate” about the cause of the fire, but  added that, “…any lessons learned… will be incorporated into planning arrangements for dealing with incidents at high-rise properties.”

Shocking images coming from London this morning! Our thoughts are with everyone involved & our @LondonFire colleagues #northkensington https://t.co/M1teynv45o

— Jersey Fire & Rescue (@JsyFire) June 14, 2017

“We would also like to reassure any tenants living in local high rise buildings that the fires such as these are extremely rare. High rise buildings are designed and built to stop the spread of smoke and provide a safe means of escape. Most fires do not spread further than one or two rooms.

“This incident reminds us that it is vitally important that people remember exactly what to do in the event of a fire so that they can protect themselves and their families,” he said.

Fire safety guidance for those living in high-rise blocks in Jersey can be found here.

Andium residents wishing to be visited specifically are encouraged to call 500700 to arrange an appointment.

An emergency hotline has now been set up for those concerned for loved ones in the North Kensington area. They can call the Casualty Bureau on 0800 0961 233.