RESIDENTS are being reassured in the wake of the Grenfell Tower tragedy that properties in Dorset meet necessary safety regulations.

At least 80 people died in the devastating west London tower block fire on June 14.

All Dorset councils have been working together, alongside the Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service and other partners, to carry out safety checks.

Dorset County Council (DCC) is working to ensure communities are as safe as possible from the risk of fire.

A statement from DCC said: "Without prejudging the investigation into what happened at Grenfell Tower, we began an immediate investigation into the use of cladding in our properties to check which materials are used, that they meet safety regulations and have been installed correctly.

"People’s safety is our first concern and this event is a tragic reminder of the need to be vigilant in our design, maintenance and management of all public buildings."

As reported last week, the fire service has assisted the council to inspect almost 250 blocks of between five to eight stories across the county.

Schools and hospitals, which have concerns about cladding on their buildings, have also offered material testing to make sure it is fire-retardant.

Meanwhile, the Dorset Councils Partnership- a tri-council partnership of North Dorset District Council, West Dorset District Council and Weymouth and Portland Borough Council-has been reviewing fire safety measures throughout the area.

While none of the councils own social housing stock there are numerous housing associations with rented homes across the areas.

The Dorset Councils Partnership has also said the councils work closely with landlord on a regular basis to share information about best practice through quarterly newsletters and seminars.

Landlords can request a free Safe and Well visit from Dorset & Wiltshire Fire Service by calling 0800 038 2323 or visiting dwfire.org.uk.