Reducing the risk of fires
To reduce the risk of a fire in your home, here are some suggestions for making your home a safer place:
- Fit a smoke alarm on each level of your home and test them regularly. Test the batteries in your smoke alarm every week and change them every year. Never remove them to use in another appliance!
- Take care when cooking, particularly with hot oil, and don’t leave children alone in the kitchen when the hob or oven is on.
- Plan an escape route and make sure everyone in the house knows the plan.
- Always make a last check for fire hazards in your home before you go to bed - it takes longer to become aware of a fire when you are asleep.
- Don't overload sockets, try to keep to one plug per socket – otherwise there’s a risk of overheating.
- Check that your electrical appliances, plugs and cables are in good order.
- Cigarettes – always stub cigarettes out properly and dispose of them carefully - more people die in fires caused by smoking than in fires caused by anything else.
- Use candles carefully. Make sure candles are secured in a stable holder and kept away from curtains, fabrics and paper. Always put candles out when you are leaving the room or going to bed.
- Book a free home fire safety visit with the Fire and Rescue Service. They will inspect your home to help you spot any potential fire hazards and show you what to do to reduce or prevent the risk of fire. They can also help you to develop an escape plan for your property
Remember, if there’s a fire, don’t tackle it yourself – get out, stay out and call 999.