Sleepover party warning to parents

Fire chiefs are warning parents over the growing trend of hosting children’s sleepovers in soft play centres.

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue service say they have already served two Prohibition Notices on centres offering sleepovers and are appealing for information on others who may be doing it.

TWFRS head of fire safety, Richie Rickaby said: “Some soft play centres have begun to offer sleepovers as an extension to children’s parties.

This is a completely different intended use for the building and is unlikely to comply with the fire safety regulations required for businesses who provide sleeping accommodation.

“We have carried out targeted inspections, providing advice to owners of these premises.

“This action has resulted in us serving two Prohibition Notices.

“In addition we have contacted a number of organisations by letter, with the aim of deterring them from offering this type of service.”

TWFRS is asking parents to contact their Business Fire Safety Team if they know of any soft play businesses – or similar – that is offering sleepovers and advising them not to book this type of party for their children without being satisfied that the necessary fire regulations have been complied with.

The Business Fire Safety Team say they have contacted the operators of all known soft play centres in Tyne and Wear to remind them that in order to offer sleeping accommodation they must comply with.

To provide information to the Business Fire Safety Team and get further information go to: https://www.twfire.gov.uk/business-safety