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 cause of
fire in a thatched roof is
heat transfer from the
chimney; other causes include electrical faults,
lightning affecting the television aerial, stray sparks
from 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 be run down the wall, avoiding contact
with the thatch.
- Disconnect the TV aerial during electrical storms to prevent
damage to the system. Lightning conductors should conform to
British Standard BS EN 62305: 2006.
- 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 following link:
Thatched Property Safety
Guide (PDF 194Kb)
If you suspect a fire in your thatched property you should call the
fire service out immediately.
Suffolk Preservation Society are holding an event
aimed at thatched property owners; please follow the link to book a
place.
suffolksociety.org
15 October 2011 Autumn Conference Fire and Thatch: a
burning issue. A distinguished expert panel,
including the insurance industry, English Heritage, academics,
research scientists as well as representatives from industry, the
fire service and the thatching world will advise on the causes of
thatch fires and give detailed advice on risk management, including
insurance and maintenance.
Forthcoming Seminars
Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service is pleased to announce two seminars
offering free guidance to owners of Thatched Properties.
Come along to hear expert guidance, from Fire and Rescue
Service personnel and invited speakers, on how to protect your
property.
Eye Town Hall: 26 October 2011, 7-9 pm
Beccles Public Hall: 27 October 2011 7-9 pm
Please follow this link to book a place; numbers are limited to 200
per event, so book early to avoid disappointment!
www.suffolk.gov.uk/thatchseminar