Airbnb issues fire safety guidance to hosts

The accommodation website Airbnb has teamed up with the National Fire Chiefs Council to issue fire safety guidance to its UK hosts.

The two-page guidelines will be sent to more than 100,000 people in Britain who use the platform to rent out rooms, flats and homes.

The guidance includes a recommendation to install and regularly test smoke alarms and to keep doors closed, especially at night time, to stop fire and smoke spreading.

It also calls on Airbnb hosts to have a detailed escape plan for them, their family and guests in the event of a fire or an emergency and get a carbon monoxide detector installed.

Airbnb said the new pamphlet built on its work with the former Chief Fire Officers Association, and brings the guidance up to date with current industry standards.

“At Airbnb, we’re committed to supporting safe hosting and are pleased to have teamed up with the UK’s leading experts to develop guidance for our community and lead our industry on this important issue,” said Public Policy Manager at Airbnb UK, Natasha Mytton-Mills.

“Whether it’s taking a minute to test your smoke alarms regularly, or having an escape plan for guests handy, we’re encouraging all of our hosts to follow a few simple steps to make their home even safer.”

The Vice Chair of NFCC Protection Committee, Nick Coombe, added: “NFCC is delighted to see that Airbnb is committed to carrying out a number of initiatives to promote home fire safety. Fire and rescue services are happy to provide support and advice to their communities so we are encouraging hosts to approach their local service for help to ensure homes are safe for families and their guests.”

The “Safety Tips For Your Home” guide is available to download from Airbnbcitizen.com.

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