A FIRE safety scheme run in Kirklees has landed a national award.
The ‘Getting In, Saving Lives’ project was named the ‘most effective partnership’ at the National Federation of ALMOs awards.
Kirklees Neighbourhood Housing (KNH) launched the project with Kirklees Building Services, West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, lock manufacturer ABS Secure and door supplier Swan Doors.
They wanted to devise a way for rescue crews to enter homes with high security uPVC doors without breaking them down.
Previously, crews struggled to get into homes fitted with the new doors, even with heavy door breaking equipment, and around 12 officers a year were being injured in their attempts.
So the teams developed a device to get through doors in less than 60 seconds, winning them the award.
Clr David Sheard, cabinet member for housing, said: “It’s a great example of how by working together, different agencies can come up with creative solutions to problems – and in this case, save lives.”
Keith Robinson, West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service District Commander for Kirklees, said: “We all aim to make the community of Kirklees safer and this is an excellent example of the benefits positive partnership working can achieve.
“Other fire and rescue services are already starting to show interest and I hope it will be taken up by them and ultimately save lives.”
