- Squalor
Squalor refers to an unsanitary living environment that arises from prolonged extreme neglect, posing substantial health and safety risks to occupants and their neighbours. In the context of fire safety, squalor can contribute to increased fire hazards and complicate emergency responses.
Key fire safety concerns associated with squalor include:
- Accumulation of debris and waste that can act as fuel in a fire.
- Blocked or inaccessible exits, hindering safe evacuation during emergencies.
- Increased likelihood of electrical and cooking-related fires due to unsafe or makeshift arrangements for utilities.
The combination of unsanitary conditions and poor maintenance in squalor environments significantly raises the danger to residents and emergency responders, making intervention and prevention critical to reduce risks​
See also: Hoarding