THE owners of bars and restaurant across Wirral are being urged to make fire safety a priority ahead of planned re-openings this weekend.

Pubs, bars and restaurants across will be only be allowed to let customers through the doors on Saturday if the premises are 'COVID-secure'.

In many cases, this will result in changes to the internal layout of premises, additional partitions, seating outside and security measures.

Officers from Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service will carry out inspections of licenced premises to ensure they conform to fire regulations and that social distancing measures are not having an adverse impact on fire safety.

Station Manager Brian Massie, from MFRS' fire protection department, said: "We understand that pub landlords, bar owners and restauranteurs will be keen to re-open their doors to the public after a long period of closure, but it's really important that business owners continue to prioritise the fire safety of the business, the safety of the people working there and those visiting their establishment.

"Many premises will have had to change the way they operate as a result of government guidance, including changing the layout of tables and chairs and the introduction of partitions where necessary.

"But these changes should be done in a way that does not significantly impact on fire safety – escape routes should still be kept clear and designated fire exits should not be blocked by furniture or excess stock.

"It's also really important that any outdoor seating or tables are not positioned on fire hydrants.

"Do your staff know what to do in the event of a fire? Do they know how to check the fire alarm is working, where firefighting equipment is kept and how to use it safely, how and where to evacuate?

"Remember - coronavirus is not an excuse for disregarding your responsibilities.

"A fire could call last orders on your premises for good."

As well as urging bar and restaurant owners to help keep customers safe, customers are also being reminded to take responsibility for their own safety, particularly when drinking.

Mark Thomas, group manager for fire prevention at MFRS, said: "If you are planning on heading out for a drink this weekend, make sure you stay away from water.

"Alcohol can seriously impair your judgement, reactions and ability to swim.

"A quick dip might seem like a good idea but it definitely isn't.

"Even during the summer, open water remains cold and sudden immersion can lead to cold water shock. Avoid walking home alone and avoid routes near water.

"Once you get home, you might be hungry but alcohol and cooking just don’t mix. Don't cook if you've been drinking alcohol, especially if you feel tired or drunk.

"If you are having a drink, let someone else do the cooking or consider eating beforehand."

There are a number of steps that businesses can take to reduce their risk of fire:

  • Ensure you have an adequate amount of competent persons to help in the implementation of preventative and protective fire safety measures. If you have absent staff you must ensure that there are adequately trained staff on-site at all times, to ensure the fire safety measures are not adversely affected.
  • Make sure your business premises are secure out of hours
  • Any combustible materials should be removed from site or stored securely
  • Remove or store all rubbish securely away from the premises
  • Keep all entrances and exits clear at all times
  • Stock should not be kept in excessive amounts
  • Lighting, CCTV and fencing will deter criminals
  • Onsite fire safety provisions should be tested regularly. This includes carrying out alarm tests and fire drills.
  • Do not prop open fire doors, even if this is intended to minimise contact between staff and door handles. Follow Public Health Advice around regularly washing your hands for 20 seconds or more to minimise the spread of coronavirus.
  • Further information on your fire risk assessments can be found at https://www.gov.uk/workplace-fire-safety-your-responsibilities/fire-risk-assessments