A new Automatic Fire Alarm attendance procedure for commercial premises and other buildings, where people do not sleep, is coming to North Yorkshire.
Currently North Yorkshire Fire & Recue do not attend automatic fire alarm activations at this kind of premises between 7am and 7pm.
From 1 July 2026 this will extend to 24-hours, unless a fire is confirmed.
They say this will help them prioritise resources where they are needed most and brings NYFRS in line with other fire and rescue services regionally and nationally.
Head of Protection and Risk, Group Manager Jon Darnton said:
“These changes reflect the priorities set out in our Community Risk Management Plan, focusing our resources on incidents that present the greatest risk to life. This approach will ensure crews are available to respond to emergencies while continuing to deliver vital prevention and protection work across North Yorkshire.
“We want to reassure the public we will continue to attend all incidents where people sleep or where there is a confirmed fire.
“Businesses play an important role in this. Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, they are responsible for maintaining effective fire safety measures, including fire alarm systems. Poor maintenance remains a key cause of false alarms and we will continue to work with businesses to provide advice and support to help reduce this risk from fire.
“The Service continues to work with key stakeholders to support a coordinated approach to community safety, protection and ensure efficient use of public resources.”
Businesses can access guidance on reducing false alarms via the Service’s website or by contacting the Business Fire Safety team at [email protected] or 01609 780150
