Risk Assessment

We want you to have a safe and enjoyable stay at our cottage. Please take a moment to read this assessment of the main risks that you will find within the cottage and grounds and how you can manage them. Built in 1840, some features of Kirkfell cottage do not conform to modern building standards.

Stairs: The stairs are steep and narrow. Use the handrail when climbing and descending. Use the child safety gate (kept in the boot room) for small children and toddlers.

Door access: The door head jambs are much lower than in conventional homes. If you are over 1.75 cm (5’9”) you may bang your head. Access to the master bedroom is especially low. Tall people will need to duck when moving from room to room.

Showers: Please use the non slip mats in the showers to avoid slips and the bath mats on the tiled floors to avoid wet pools making a slip hazard.

Cooker (Everhot Range): The hotplate and ovens on the Everhot are always on. When the protective hot plate cover is removed the surface temperature of the plate is 300F. Always replace the cover when the hotplate is not in use.

Windows: Windows are fitted with safety locks. Please ensure these are closed and in place when children are in bedrooms unsupervised to avoid falls from upstairs windows. If ventilating the bedrooms, open the upper sash only.

Wood Stoves: Use the guide provided when starting the log fires. Protective gauntlets are provided for your safety. Use the fire guards (located in the boot room) to protect children and vulnerable adults from the hot surface of the stoves.

Fire Safety: The cottage is equipped with a linked fire and heat alarm. In the event of the alarm sounding vacate the premises immediately and proceed to safety at Kirkfell House.

A fire extinguisher is located in the ground floor understairs cupboard. A fire blanket is located in the utility room. Read the instructions before use.

CO2: The rooms with wood stoves are monitored for Carbon monoxide. If an alarm sounds in these rooms ventilate the area immediately and make the owners aware of the problem.

Patio and garden: The patio and garden area is located on a steep hill and is terraced. Be aware of the risks involved in falling from one of the terrace walls. Children should not play in the garden unsupervised.

Safety Contact: If you have any safety concerns or problems call James Lusher on 07808 581141 or Polly Lusher on 07793 495659.