CHESTER DIOCESAN GUILD OF CHURCH BELL RINGERS WIRRAL BRANCH

SAFETY IN TOWERS

THINK SAFETY!

All ringers are responsible for the safety of themselves and others in the tower
The following advice is offered for your consideration.

Allow only appointed, experienced ringers to be responsible for teaching

Only allow an inexperienced visiting ringer to ring if an experienced ringer stands close behind him or her

Do not walk across the 'rope circle' while ringing is in progress

Ensure ringer's toes do not extend over front of boxes where used

Do not sit with legs crossed during ringing where you are seated close to bellropes - feet should be placed firmly on the floor

Ensure that non-ringing visitors are always accompanied by ringers

Keep bellropes locked away at ground floor rings of bells

Install emergency lighting in case of power failure

Ensure there is a First Aid Box in the ringing chamber

Display warning/danger and fire exit notices on appropriate doors

Ensure a Fire Extinguisher is installed, and maintained, at an appropriate location

Install a prominent red light to indicate if anyone is in the bellchamber

Keep the bellchamber door locked, especially if it is accessible without passing through the ringing chamber

Never allow anyone to work alone in the tower whether the bells are up or down

Avoid working in the bellchamber when the bells are up

Put muffles on clappers only when bells are down

For further information contact the Chairman of the Towers and Belfries Committee of the Central Council of Church Bell Ringers. Details in Ringing World Diary (2001) or available via your Branch Secretary.