In fresh months they have intensified control of cellars in residential buildings all over Poland. The fire department and the city defender shall check the conformity of the items stored there with the fire protection regulations. For failings, residents can be fined with a mandate of up to PLN 5 000.
Dangerous retention in basements – real fire hazard
One of the most tragic examples of the effects of inappropriate retention in the cellars was the fire in Poznań in 2024. As a result, 2 firefighters were killed and 14 people were injured. The investigation showed that the origin of the tragedy was the retention of flammable materials which contributed to the fast spread of fire.
Such incidents item the importance of complying with fire protection rules. The basements, like another parts of the common buildings, should be free of objects that may pose a threat.
What's not to store in the basement?
In accordance with the regulations of the Ministry of Interior and Administration and the guidelines of the State Fire Department, the following items must not be stored in the cellars:
- Flammable gases: bottles with propane butane, acetylene or method gases.
- Flammable materials: petrol, solvents, alcohols, method oils.
- PirotechnicsFireworks, flares, cold fires.
- ExplosivesUnexploded, flares, grenades.
- Hazardous wastePaints, varnishes, plant protection products.
In addition, items specified as furniture, books or textiles must be stored in a way that does not impede evacuation and protected from moisture and mould.
Mandates for non-compliance
The fire department and the city police have the right to carry out random checksto increase the safety of residents. Persons who do not comply may be fined with:
- The mandates are from PLN 500 au PLN 5 000, depending on the scale of the infringement.
- In utmost cases, the case may be referred to the court, which entails additional costs.
How to prepare for basement control?
In order to avoid penalties and guarantee safety, residents should respect respective basic principles:
- Remove flammable materials – check for prohibited items in the basement.
- Keep Order – Donate useless things to recycling or throw away.
- Do not block escape routes – all passages and doors must be free of obstacles.
- Keep things in containers – sealed plastic boxes defend against moisture and defend against fire.
Fire statistic in Poland
According to State Fire Department data in 2024, over 102 1000 firesof which 30 thousand took place in residential buildings. The main causes were the neglect of residents and incorrect retention of items.
Why follow the rules?
Compliance with fire protection rules is not only a legal obligation, but above all security issue. A appropriate approach to storing items can prevent tragedy, protecting the lives and wellness of the inhabitants.
In the face of the expanding number of fires and increased control, it is worth to approach the subject responsibly. guarantee order in your basement and follow the rules to avoid fines and increase the safety of the full building.
Continued here:
Control of cellars in Poland: advanced penalties for breaking regulations
