A call has been made for new smoke alarm legislation to be delayed for a second time.
By the start of February, every home in Dumfries and Galloway will need to have multiple, inter-linked alarm systems installed – regardless of whether or not they are a new build.
The legislation was originally due to come into effect last February but the Scottish Government pushed it back by 12 months due to the coronavirus pandemic.
However, Labour MSP Colin Smyth is calling for a further delay as he fears many people in the region are unaware of the changes or aren’t able to source new alarms.
He said: “Unless these changes are delayed, thousands of my constituents across the area will end up inadvertently breaking the law in just a few weeks, either because they aren’t aware of the new rules or they physically cannot get hold of the equipment.
“It is beyond ridiculous to plough ahead with this law change next month when people can’t even buy the equipment required and many just don’t know anything about the change in the law.
“This policy has been plagued with problems from the start – but this is a new level of incompetence from the SNP.
“This was a chance to improve safety in millions of homes – but the SNP’s total lack of preparation has made it completely unworkable, leaving us with no option but to have a delay again.
“These must be pushed back by another year, so we can deal with the litany of flaws the SNP have let pile up. We need to make sure everyone knows about these changes with a proper public awareness campaign, those on low income are given help so they can afford the equipment and if needed, help with the installation and we have to make sure people in every part of the country can access supplies.”
Under the new regulations, every residential property in Scotland will require an interlinked alarm system featuring devices in living rooms, landings and halls, as well as a heat alarm in the kitchen. It is estimated this would cost around £220 per property.
A Scottish Government spokesman said: “This legislation was introduced to protect lives and property following the tragic Grenfell fire, ensuring that all homes meet the same fire safety standards that we already have in new build properties and the private rental sector. It places a legal duty on local authorities to ensure homes in their area meet the new standard.
“Homeowners are generally responsible for paying for works to protect their property but we know some may not be able to meet the cost of fitting these alarms. That is why we have provided £500,000 through Care and Repair Scotland to help disabled and older people install the alarms in their homes. This is in addition to the £1 million we have provided to the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to install alarms in owner-occupied homes identified as being at highest risk.”
