Blind Welfare picks Dorgard

The Blind Welfare Organisation at Elkington House, Southend-on-Sea, has chosen Dorgard electronic fire door stays to hold their fire doors open safely. In response to Health and Safety Fire Safety Regulations, thirty two Dorgards have been fitted to keep their doors open, allowing elderly, visually impaired residents to move about freely in the care home. Dorgard, manufactured by Fireco Ltd, is a cost-effective, audio-electronic hold open device to keep fire doors open. Unlike Electro-Magnetic Retainers (EMR), Dorgard requires no wiring and takes just a few minutes to install. A fire door is held open by simply depressing the rubber stopper, which makes contact with the floor. Dorgard's integral microphone then listens for the fire alarm. On hearing the sound of the fire alarm, the rubber stopper retracts, allowing the fire door to swing closed.

A registered charity, Blind Welfare, has been working to help visually impaired people in the community since 1959 and houses 25 permanent residents presently. Welfare staff welcome the installation of Dorgard. "With so much need for wheelchair traffic around the care home it was tempting to wedge the fire doors open, which we know is a dangerous practice," comments Home Manager, Gill Gilbert. She continues, "We are all very impressed with Dorgard, and the company's after-sales service has been great. I support their "Wedge Pledge" offer for which Fireco pays £5.00 for every wedge you return, after purchase of a Dorgard."

Blind Welfare greatly appreciates donations from individuals and organisations. They frequently arrange their own fund raising events, such as garden parties and quiz evenings, to finance entertainment and personal care for residents. Frequent social activities are scheduled throughout the week to occupy patients and enhance their lives. A visiting hairdresser and nail technician tends to residents needs, while chiropody, opthalmic and dental services can also be provided. Each person has a dedicated, trained member of staff responsible for their welfare.

Fireco Ltd is a member of the JFP group. Dorgard provides a simple and cost-effective way of safely holding fire doors open in busy environments such as care homes, hotels, offices. The product complies with all applicable EC directives, and has been tested to the recently published BS EN 1155. Dorgard is now available in 10 colours.