The head of Kent's fire service has said Medway is one of the safest councils in the region after councillors decided to install sprinklers in most of its new buildings.

It becomes a basic council rule that all new schools will have sprinklers, and it will now urge developers to install them in new homes.

It follows recommendations from backbench councillors who had looked at the risks in the past few months.

They will be fitted to all new children's homes, care homes and residential sheltered housing.

The decision is almost certain to attract national publicity.

~Listen: Hear Asst Director Community Safety Steve Griffiths tell why installing a sprinkler is a wise move>>>

Chief Officer Bill Feeley from Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) will address a parliamentary seminar at the House of Commons on Monday as part of a national lobbying for its Safer With Sprinklers campaign.

Mr Feeley said: "I have overseen this campaign for two years and while we have achieved a number of successes, this major development is testimony to the hard work and belief of our officers. I am delighted that it is gathering such momentum and recognition and we congratulate Medway Council for taking this important step by recording its support for sprinkler systems."

The council worked closely with KFRS on the new policy.

Finance and council deputy leader, Cllr Alan Jarrett, said it was a step in the right direction.

"It should protect lives across Medway," he said.

Building insurance premiums could be cut by 60 per cent for schools with sprinklers saving taxpayers £2,500 for a typical primary school.

"We urge other councils to follow Medway's lead and protect the most vulnerable members of the community by installing sprinkler systems," said Mr Feeley.