Fire engine pulling out of fire station

Fire crews were called to Glossopdale School and Sixth Form in Glossop, Derbyshire, on Sunday 22 May at around 9:40am.

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.

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.”

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.