Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue service carried out a successful rescue drill at Gloucester City Homes' (GCH) Independent Living Scheme Clapham Court in Kingsholm.

Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS) performed the practice evacuation and rescue to test its procedures in the event of a fire in the ten-storey building. Rescues were performed from third and tenth floor balconies, using a fire engine with an extendable arm as well as fire officers performing rescues from within the building using weighted dolls.

The exercise took place to ensure that all residents of Clapham Court are familiar with fire, rescue and evacuation procedures; keeping everyone as safe as possible in their homes. It was also a chance for GFRS to use the time as a training exercise for both Clapham Court and other high-rise buildings in the area.

Clapham Court has good fire prevention measures in place, including a retrofitted sprinkler system, an annual review by GFRS to ensure it is fire safe and a clear evacuation plan, as well as a fire risk assessment undertaken by fire safety contractors every year.

Becky Evans, independent living & LifeLink manager at GCH said: "We are grateful to have such a great relationship with Gloucestershire Fire & Rescue Service. These exercises are invaluable and provide reassurance to residents on safety, should there ever be a fire on schemes across our Independent Living Service. This exercise was also a great opportunity to remind residents of the stay put policy that exists within the building."

Jo Singh, station manager at GFRS said: "This is a valuable exercise, showing the collaboration between GCH and GFRS to reassure our community and residents at Clapham Court. It was also a brilliant opportunity for GFRS to practice high rise procedures."