A safety crackdown will be carried out in pubs across the Bradford district after fire officers discovered a raft of dangerous problems.

They found emergency exits nailed shut, broken security lights, faulty alarm systems and door signs missing in licensed premises.

Next week 40 officers from the fire safety team will start a sweep of spot checks in 250 pubs in the area.

Divisional Officer David Wilkinson said the decision to inspect such a large sample was taken after inadequate safety measures were found.

"There were many types of problems when we inspected a few pubs. We were horrified at what we found so we decided to carry out a full inspection.

"People do not realise the dangers. They become complacent because they are so used to seeing exit doors and they don't give it a second thought."

Mr Wilkinson, who is head of the brigade's workplace fire safety team, said there is a particular risk in rural pubs which often also provide accommodation.

He said businesses needed to comply with the Fire Precautions Workplace (Regul-ations) 1997 which requires a safe means of escape, fire alarm and clearly marked emergency exits.

"Landlords can expect a fire safety officer to call at any time during next week. There will be no warning to individual premises.

"It is hoped the project will result in an increased awareness of general fire safety precautions and the importance of providing appropriate means of escape."