Fire Safety and Warden Duties Training Course
Course Introduction
Welcome to the Fire Safety and Warden Duties Training Course. This comprehensive program is designed to equip all B1KE staff with the knowledge and skills to prevent, respond to, and manage fire-related emergencies effectively. Fire safety is a critical part of our workplace culture, ensuring the safety of our staff, visitors, and the environment.
Through this course, you will learn about:
- Fire Safety Basics – Understanding fire prevention and the fire triangle.
- Responding to a Fire – Actions to take when a fire occurs, including evacuation procedures.
- Fire Warden Duties – Roles and responsibilities for Fire Wardens during emergencies.
- Site-Specific Procedures – Tailored evacuation plans and back-up strategies for each B1KE site.
By completing this course, you will gain the confidence to handle fire safety responsibilities, contribute to a safer workplace, and ensure compliance with legal and organizational standards.
At the end of the course, you will take a short quiz to assess your understanding of the material. Be sure to review each module carefully and reach out to your manager if you have any questions or need further clarification.
Let’s get started!
Module 1: Fire Safety Basics
Fire Warning System
At all sites, the fire warning system consists of a shouted warning &/or whistle:
“Fire, Fire, Fire, Evacuate the Area.”
Fire Extinguishers
For woodland workers, ensure portable firefighting equipment (e.g., fire extinguishers) is easily accessible during trail maintenance or high-risk activities like chainsaw use.
Woodland Specific Risks
Dry vegetation: Increased fire risk during hot weather or drought. Chainsaw sparks or machinery malfunction: Ensure equipment is well-maintained, and work only in designated areas.
Module 1: Fire Safety Basics
Overview
This module provides a foundational understanding of fire safety principles, focusing on the causes of fires, preventative measures, and staff responsibilities in maintaining a fire-safe workplace.
Content
Understanding the Fire Triangle
The fire triangle illustrates that fires require three elements to burn: heat, fuel, and oxygen. Removing any one of these elements will extinguish the fire.
Heat
- Sources of heat include faulty electrical equipment, open flames, sparks from tools, and hot machinery.
- Example: A frayed electrical cord near paper supplies can generate heat and ignite a fire.
Fuel
- Anything combustible can serve as fuel, such as timber, textiles, paper, flammable liquids, and gases.
- Example: Storing aerosols near heat sources increases the risk of fire due to their pressurized and flammable content.
Oxygen
- Oxygen is present in the environment and sustains combustion.
General Fire Prevention
- Regularly inspect your work area for hazards such as frayed wires, overloaded power strips, or improperly stored flammable materials.
- Maintain cleanliness to reduce combustible waste.
- Ensure fire exits and escape routes remain clear of obstructions.
Waste Management Tips
- Separate combustible materials from ignition sources.
- Use metal waste bins with lids where possible.
- Schedule routine waste disposal to avoid accumulation.
Module 2: Responding to a Fire
Overview
This module explains the critical actions all staff must take during a fire emergency, focusing on effective communication, evacuation procedures, and prioritising safety. At B1KE, due to the unique nature of our woodland sites, quick thinking and clear action are essential for minimising risk and ensuring everyone’s safety.
Content
Raising the Alarm
- Unlike traditional buildings, B1KE sites do not have fire alarms. Instead, staff must rely on verbal warnings or whistles to alert others to a fire.
- If you discover a fire, immediately raise the alarm by shouting or blowing a whistle:
“Fire, Fire, Fire, Evacuate the Area!” - Ensure your warning is loud enough to reach all nearby areas. If necessary, relay the message via two-way radios to staff in more remote locations.
Immediate Priorities
- Raise the Alarm: Notify everyone on-site.
- Call for Help: Inform the senior staff member on-site, who will contact emergency services (999). Provide key details such as the site name, location, and fire status.
Evacuation Procedures
Evacuating safely and efficiently is the most important action during a fire emergency. Follow these steps:
- Stay Calm: Avoid panicking, as this can lead to confusion.
- Use the Nearest Exit: Identify the closest safe exit and direct others to follow.
- Close Doors Behind You: This helps contain the fire and slow its spread.
- Leave Belongings Behind: Do not stop to collect personal items, as this delays evacuation.
Assembly Points
Direct all staff and visitors to the designated fire assembly point for your site:
- Tidworth: Main Car Park.
- Wind Hill: Main Customer Car Park.
- Rogate: Main Car Park.
If the primary assembly point is unsafe or inaccessible:
- Tidworth: Use either adjacent field based on conditions.
- Wind Hill: Direct staff and visitors to the Bottom Field and immediately inform Longleat Security.
- Rogate: Use the Bottom Road instead of the main car park.
Dynamic Risk Assessment During Evacuation
At B1KE, dynamic risk assessment is critical during fire emergencies, as conditions can change rapidly in outdoor environments. While evacuating:
- Assess Wind Direction: Avoid routes where wind may carry smoke or flames.
- Identify Safe Exits: Choose the nearest exit that is free from obstructions or hazards.
- Adapt if Necessary: If the fire spreads or blocks planned routes, guide staff and visitors to the safest available location.
- Monitor Assembly Points: If conditions make the primary assembly point unsafe, redirect everyone to the secondary location.
Responsibilities for All Staff
- Ensure that you and those around you are safe and accounted for at the assembly point.
- Communicate any missing individuals or hazards to the senior staff member or emergency services immediately.
- Follow instructions from the Fire Warden or emergency services without delay.
Raise The Alarm
Call For Help
Fighting Fires Safely
When to Use a Fire Extinguisher
Fire extinguishers can be used only if:
- You are trained and confident in their use.
- The fire is small, contained, and manageable (e.g., a waste bin fire).
- There is a clear escape route behind you.
Types of Fire Extinguishers
- Water Extinguishers: For fires involving wood, paper, and textiles.
- CO2 Extinguishers: Suitable for electrical fires.
- Foam Extinguishers: Use on flammable liquids like oil or petrol.
Key Safety Reminders
- Never attempt to fight a fire if doing so puts you or others at risk.
- If you cannot control the fire within seconds, focus on evacuation and safety.
Module 3: Fire Warden Duties
The Team
At B1KE, our priority is creating a safe and supportive environment for staff, riders, and visitors. Together, we take responsibility, act decisively, and ensure everyone leaves the trails as they arrived—safe, confident, and ready for the next adventure.
Clocking In and Out
Clocking in and out is essential for ensuring everyone’s safety and accountability. It helps us keep an accurate record of who is on-site, especially in emergencies, and supports smooth coordination during evacuations. Always make it a priority to clock in when you arrive and clock out before you leave.
Communication Tools (Mobile Phones & Radios)
Always keep radios and phones charged and ready to ensure clear communication during emergencies.
Overview
This module focuses on the additional responsibilities of the Fire Warden during a fire emergency, as well as their duties in preparing for and reviewing fire safety procedures. While all staff share core fire safety responsibilities, Fire Wardens take on a leadership role, ensuring evacuation procedures run smoothly and acting as the key point of contact for emergency services.
Content
Fire Warden Responsibilities on the Day
In addition to raising the alarm and assisting with evacuation (as covered in Module 2), Fire Wardens must:
- Coordinate the Evacuation: Take charge of directing staff and visitors, ensuring everyone follows the evacuation plan.
- Retrieve the Check-In List: If safe to do so, collect the check-in list or visitor log to account for all individuals on-site.
- Conduct a Final Sweep: If the fire location allows, check all areas of the site, including:
- Cabins.
- Trails.
- Toilets and other facilities.
- Monitor Assembly Points: Verify that all staff and visitors are present at the designated assembly point.
- Prevent Re-Entry: Ensure no one re-enters the site until cleared by the fire service or senior management.
Liaising with Emergency Services
The Fire Warden is the main point of contact for emergency services upon their arrival. Duties include:
- Providing the site address and key details about the fire’s location and size.
- Informing them of any missing individuals and their last known location.
- Sharing relevant site maps or evacuation plans, if required.
Prevention and Preparation Duties
Fire Wardens also have responsibilities to ensure fire safety preparedness before any emergency arises:
Weekly Checks
- Inspect escape routes to ensure they are clear and accessible.
- Verify that firefighting equipment, such as extinguishers, is in good condition and properly located.
Staff Awareness
- Ensure all staff are familiar with evacuation procedures and their roles during a fire emergency.
- Highlight the location of assembly points and backup options.
Participate in Fire Drills
- Help plan and execute annual fire evacuation drills.
- Monitor the effectiveness of the drill, identifying bottlenecks or confusion points.
Report Fire Hazards
- Regularly assess the site for potential fire hazards, such as accumulated waste or flammable materials near heat sources.
- Report any issues to management promptly.
Post-Incident Review
After a fire or drill, Fire Wardens must assist in reviewing the evacuation process:
- Identify what worked well and areas needing improvement.
- Provide detailed feedback to management to update procedures if necessary.
- Ensure any damaged firefighting equipment or blocked escape routes are addressed immediately.
Key Tools for Fire Wardens
Fire Wardens are equipped with specific tools to perform their duties effectively:
- Whistles for raising the alarm.
- Hi-Vis Bibs to ensure visibility during evacuations.
- Two-Way Radios for communicating with other staff or relaying information to emergency services.
- Torches and Blankets to assist in low-visibility conditions or support distressed individuals.
Module 4: Site-Specific Evacuation Procedures
Overview
This module focuses on specific challenges and considerations unique to each B1KE location, ensuring staff can adapt evacuation procedures effectively in real-world situations. Each site’s layout, environment, and potential communication issues require tailored responses to ensure the safety of all staff and visitors.
Content
Site-Specific Challenges and Considerations
Tidworth:
Proximity to Main Road:
Tidworth runs along a 60mph main road, which poses significant risks during evacuations, particularly for visitors unfamiliar with the area.- Staff must ensure visitors are kept away from the road during evacuations to prevent accidents.
- Use the adjacent fields as backup assembly points to avoid gathering people near the road.
- Assign staff to monitor any access points leading to the main road and redirect individuals if necessary.
Visibility for Emergency Services:
Emergency services may struggle to locate specific areas on-site due to its proximity to the road and dense surroundings.- Ensure someone is stationed at the road entrance to guide fire crews to the affected area.
- Use high-visibility signage or lighting to mark access points during low-light conditions.
Wind Hill:
Top and Bottom Cutoff Risk:
Due to Wind Hill’s layout, the top and bottom areas of the site could become isolated during an emergency, especially if a fire spreads along key trails or access routes.- Staff must identify safe exit points for both the top and bottom areas before directing visitors.
- If the main driveway or car park becomes inaccessible, direct individuals from the top area to the camper access road and those at the bottom to the Bottom Field.
Mandatory Longleat Security Notification:
Given its location on Longleat Estate, it is essential to notify Longleat Security immediately when using alternative evacuation routes.- Share headcounts, fire details, and any potential hazards that might affect estate operations.
Rogate:
Top and Bottom Cutoff Risk:
Similar to Wind Hill, Rogate’s layout presents a risk of separation between the top and bottom areas of the site.- For visitors or staff cut off from the main car park, the Bottom Road serves as a backup assembly point.
- Ensure Fire Wardens are positioned at both the top and bottom areas to communicate changes in evacuation plans.
Dense Tree Coverage:
The dense tree coverage at Rogate may obstruct visibility and complicate navigation during an emergency.- Use whistles and radios to relay instructions effectively.
- Staff should familiarise themselves with less obvious escape routes during site training.
Communication Challenges in Woodland Environments
Woodland environments like Tidworth, Wind Hill, and Rogate often present challenges for effective communication due to:
- Signal Interference: Dense tree coverage can weaken radio and mobile signals, making it difficult to relay messages over long distances.
- Ambient Noise: Wind, wildlife, and general trail activity can drown out verbal warnings or radio instructions.
Workarounds for Communication Challenges:
Use Whistles as a Backup:
Whistles are an effective non-verbal communication tool in noisy environments. All staff should carry whistles to signal evacuation alerts or relay basic messages when radios fail.Establish Relay Points:
Assign staff to strategic positions along trails to act as relay points for verbal or radio instructions.- Example: At Wind Hill, position a relay staff member halfway up the push-up trail to coordinate between the top and bottom areas.
Pre-Set Radio Channels:
Ensure all staff are trained to use a specific radio channel designated for emergency communication. Test signal strength across all areas during drills to identify weak spots.Loud Verbal Communication:
When signals fail, staff should rely on loud, clear verbal communication, such as shouting evacuation instructions or location-specific guidance.
Additional Safety Considerations
Visitor Management:
- Many visitors may not be familiar with the layout or potential hazards of B1KE sites.
- Assign staff to guide visitors and ensure they stay on designated evacuation paths.
Evacuation During High Activity:
- During peak times, such as weekends or events, larger groups can slow down evacuations.
- Use whistles or radios to guide groups in stages, reducing bottlenecks along narrow paths.
Weather and Visibility:
- Poor weather conditions, such as fog or heavy rain, may limit visibility and increase evacuation times.
- Provide Fire Wardens with torches and ensure assembly points are clearly marked.
Post-Evacuation Review
After any evacuation or drill, site-specific challenges should be evaluated and addressed:
- Report Communication Failures: Document any areas where radios or other tools did not function effectively.
- Address Layout-Specific Issues: For example, if a cutoff area caused delays, consider improving signage or conducting more frequent training for those sections.
- Update Site Maps: Incorporate alternative routes and backup plans into official site maps for clarity during future emergencies.
Act Fast, Stay Safe
In an emergency, every second counts. Stay calm, follow evacuation procedures, and prioritise clear communication to ensure everyone's safety. Your quick response can make all the difference.
See it, report it!
Reporting fire hazards, incidents, or near misses promptly ensures a safer environment for everyone. Your vigilance and action can prevent accidents and save lives. Don't delay—inform your manager or Fire Warden immediately.
Stub It Out
Always dispose of cigarettes in designated bins or sand-filled containers. Improper disposal can easily spark fires, especially in woodland areas. Take the extra moment to ensure they’re fully extinguished
Fire Safety First: Stay Alert, Stay Prepared.
Fire safety is essential in every environment. Always be aware of potential hazards, follow evacuation procedures, and prioritise the safety of yourself and others. Preparation and quick action save lives.
Module 5: Fire Safety for Off-Site Work (Private Builds and Projects)
Overview
This module addresses fire safety considerations when working on private builds or projects away from B1KE sites. Off-site environments may lack the familiarity and established safety infrastructure of our main locations, requiring additional vigilance and preparation.
Content
1. Pre-Work Preparation
- Risk Assessment:
Conduct a site-specific risk assessment to identify potential fire hazards, such as flammable materials or poorly maintained equipment. - Emergency Plan:
Familiarise yourself with the site’s emergency procedures, including evacuation routes and assembly points. If none exist, coordinate with the client to establish them.
2. Fire Safety on Private Sites
- Equipment Checks:
Ensure fire extinguishers are present, accessible, and appropriate for the environment. - Communication:
Establish clear lines of communication, such as radios or mobile phones, for emergencies. Ensure all team members know who to contact in case of a fire. - Hazard Awareness:
Take extra care with tools or machinery that generate heat or sparks. Keep flammable materials away from ignition sources.
3. Raising the Alarm
- If No Alarms Are Present:
Use verbal warnings or whistles to alert others to a fire. - Notify Emergency Services:
Dial 999 immediately and provide the site address, fire location, and any potential hazards.
4. Evacuation
- Dynamic Assessment:
As with woodland settings, conditions may change quickly. Identify and adapt to the safest evacuation routes. - Assembly Points:
Use the pre-established assembly point or move to a safe open area away from the fire.
5. Post-Incident Actions
- Report the Incident:
Notify the client and B1KE management immediately after the fire has been controlled. - Review Procedures:
Assess the incident to identify improvements for future off-site work.
Final Reminders
Fire safety is everyone’s responsibility. At B1KE, our unique woodland sites present specific challenges, making preparation, clear communication, and dynamic decision-making critical. Always familiarise yourself with your site’s evacuation routes, assembly points, and communication tools. In an emergency, prioritise personal safety, guide others calmly, and adapt to changing conditions as necessary. Remember, your actions can make a significant difference in ensuring the safety of everyone on-site. If in doubt, rely on your training and don’t hesitate to ask for guidance. Stay safe, stay prepared!
Time To Take The Quiz
Take The Quiz - Click Here
Now that you’ve reviewed the Fire Safety and Warden Duties training, it’s time to test your understanding. The quiz will assess your knowledge of key procedures, site-specific protocols, and emergency response actions. Click above to begin and confirm your readiness to ensure a safe environment for everyone at B1KE!