The small fire, which started in a room at the back of the school, was contained and prevented from spreading by a sprinkler system, however, two people were taken to hospital with minor burns.
Derbyshire’s Chief Fire Officer, Gavin Tomlinson, said Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service are calling for a change in legislation that would ensure more schools have sprinklers.
Author's quote
Gavin said: “Nationally, through the Fire Chiefs Council, and locally across Derby and Derbyshire we have been campaigning for a change in legislation that would ensure all new schools and those undergoing refurbishment in England are fitted with sprinklers."
“Sprinklers not only extinguish or contain a fire until the arrival of fire crews, but they prevent the devastating impact on young people’s education, the community and the high costs of rebuilding as a result of fire.”
Statement of Intent
Following three significant accidental and deliberate school fires in 2020, Derby City and Derbyshire County Council both signed a "Statement of Intent" to fit sprinklers and other appropriate fire safety measures in both new-build schools and primary and secondary schools undergoing significant renovation, refurbishment, or extension. Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service determined the cause of the fire to be accidental.