Yesterday, a fire broke out in my block of flats here in Sutton. It was a nerve-wracking experience for everyone involved, but what made it truly distressing was the realization that there are no escape routes in our building, no alarms to alert residents to the danger, and no communication or assistance from the council to ensure our safety in the aftermath.

This event has exposed a critical and dangerous oversight in the fire safety measures of residential buildings here. Fires can and do happen, and being prepared can be the difference between life and death. We are requesting urgent action to fireproof our residential buildings and implement a robust fire escape plan that includes installing proper fire alarms and clear evacuation routes.

According to the Local Government Association, ensuring fire safety in residential buildings is not just necessary but mandatory to protect lives. Statistics from the Fire Protection Association indicate that having a fire escape plan in place can reduce fatal injuries by up to 50%. Given the recent tragedies in similar high-rise residential buildings across the UK, it is baffling that our block remains ill-prepared for such emergencies.

We urge Sutton Council to prioritize the safety of its residents by conducting a comprehensive fire safety audit of all residential buildings, enforcing fireproofing measures, and establishing clear, accessible escape routes. This should also include a system for regular safety drills and maintenance checks to ensure that all equipment remains operational.

The safety and peace of mind of every resident in Sutton should be a top priority. We need to prevent avoidable disasters and ensure that all residents feel secure in their homes. Please help make our community a safer place by signing this petition to ensure that fire safety measures and escape plans are put in place without delay.