Salvage plans

Churches often contain important manuscripts, tapestries, paintings, silverware and other valuable artefacts which merit efforts to save in case of fire or other emergency. Churches should therefore consider implementing a salvage plan which details the location of the most valuable artefacts to be saved and how they can be safely retrieved during an emergency.

Efforts to save identified items will be dependent on the location and severity of the fire and the ease by which each item can be removed. These efforts should not impede or delay the main evacuation of all occupants or calling of the emergency services. At the time of a fire incident the retrieval and removal of specific valuable items may need to be assessed dynamically where safe to do so.

Salvage plans should be kept up to date with relevant contact details of the persons nominated to carry out retrievals. Pictures of specific items and locations within the building, including how they are to be removed, may also be beneficial when structuring the salvage plan. Salvage plans can also be shared with the emergency services or fire crew if in attendance.