Fire Safety in Single Living Accommodation (SLA) and Service Family Accommodation (SFA)
Issued for Pt.1 Orders – Mandatory Compliance
Fire safety is a statutory requirement under Defence Fire Safety Policy and a personal responsibility for all occupants of Service accommodation. Adhering to these measures protects life, property, and operational capability.
Mandatory Requirements for All Occupants (Military and Civilian)
All residents are reminded of the following non‑negotiable fire safety rules, applicable to all SLA Blocks and SFA properties:
1. Keep Escape Routes Clear
The following areas must remain unobstructed at all times:
- Staircases and stairwells
- Corridors and communal hallways
- Alcoves and cupboards on escape routes
- All fire exits and approach routes to final exits
These areas constitute the primary and secondary emergency escape paths as defined in Defence fire safety regulations.
2. Storage Prohibited in Escape Routes
No items are to be left or stored in these areas under any circumstances. Prohibited items include, but are not limited to:
- Furniture and personal belongings
- Boxes, bags, parcels, or refuse
- Electrical appliances or charging devices
- Flammable materials (e.g., fuels, aerosols, cardboard)
- Bicycles, scooters, or pushchairs
- Prams, toys, or sports equipment
3. Fire Detection and Safety Equipment
All residents must:
- Not tamper with or disable smoke detectors, fire alarms, extinguishers, or break‑glass units.
- Immediately report defects or missing equipment through the appropriate accommodation helpdesk or chain of command.
- Comply with block‑specific fire instructions and evacuation procedures.
4. Responsible Use of Electrical Equipment
To minimise ignition risk, occupants must:
- Avoid daisy‑chaining multi‑adapters.
- Only use in‑date, safe, personal electrical items.
- Switch off appliances when not in use.
- Not leave items charging unattended or overnight.
(As required by JSP 426.)
Why Obstructions Are Dangerous
Blocked escape routes:
- Significantly increase the risk of injury or loss of life during a fire.
- Slow evacuation and obstruct emergency services.
- Add fuel that accelerates the spread of fire and smoke.
- Breach Defence fire safety legislation and void fire risk assessments for the building.
Failure to Comply
In accordance with Defence accommodation and fire safety regulations (JSP 426, JSP 315, JSP 464):
- Military personnel may face administrative or disciplinary action.
- Civilian residents may face formal warnings, charges, or termination of licence/occupancy agreements.
Maintaining clear escape routes and adhering to fire safety measures is essential to protect yourself, your family, and your fellow residents.
Fire safety saves lives – keep escape routes clear.