There are many thatched properties throughout the county of Suffolk
and they are an important part of our heritage.
Thatched properties do, however, have their own special Fire Safety
issues.
A thatched roof is always at risk from fire. Once a fire has taken
hold in a thatch it will spread rapidly. The commonest causes of
fire in a thatched building are electrical faults, lightening
affecting the television aerial, stray sparks from the chimneys,
discarded cigarettes and garden bonfires.
- Television aerials should be fitted to a freestanding pole.
Where this is not possible it may be fixed to a gable or gable end
chimney where the cable can by run down the wall, avoiding contact
with the thatch.
- Disconnect the TV aerial during electrical storms to prevent
damage to the system. Lightening conductors should conform to
British Standard BS6651 1999.
- Protect your household by fitting and maintaining smoke
alarms.
Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service can offer fire Safety advice
regarding Thatched properties. Please contact us if you would like
an information booklet or if you prefer you can download this
booklet by using the linking:
Thatched Property Safety
Guide (PDF 3,509Kb)
If you suspect a fire in your thatched property you should call the
fire service out immediately.