Fire Safety in the Home

75% of all fire deaths occur in the home, and it is the old and the very young who are most at risk.

One third of all domestic fires are caused by chip pans or children playing with matches.

Smoke detectors

All our properties should be fitted with a smoke detector and these will be checked by us every year. If there is not one in your home, contact the Maintenance Department on 01962 840 222.
It is your responsibility to ensure that your smoke detector is fitted with a live battery at all times. Never leave the smoke detector without one fitted.
You should test the smoke detector at regular intervals; if it does not work the battery may need replacing. If this does not rectify the problem contact the Maintenance Department immediately on 01962 840 222.
If you have a smoke detector in your kitchen, make sure you ventilate the room properly to avoid setting off the alarm. This is particularly important in hostels and sheltered schemes where the detectors may be linked to the main fire alarm system and the Fire & Rescue Service will be called out.

The use of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) or paraffin heaters in flats is not permitted.
Do not clutter up stairwells, landings and corridors in blocks of flats, especially with items that may easily catch fire. Remember this is the emergency exit route for your neighbours, so your safety and theirs depends on everyone co-operating.
Avoid storing flammable materials that could be a fire risk, or allow rubbish to pile up against the side of the building or under external staircases.
Doors can help contain a fire and stop smoke spreading if they are shut so avoid wedging open doors, especially self closing fire doors.
The emergency services need a clear route to deal with emergencies. You can assist by parking properly and keeping access roads clear.

Plan safe escape routes for your family now, even if you never have to use them.
Make sure that all your own equipment and domestic appliances are in good working order, are regularly serviced and repaired or thrown away when worn out.
Make sure that all second-hand appliances have been tested.
Encourage all the family (and visitors) to acquire good safety habits.
Have a nightly checklist, and go around your home before you go to bed making sure that everything is left in a safe condition.
Close all doors before going to bed or going out.
Always guard open or radiant fires such as bar heaters.
Unplug electrical equipment that is not being used.
Avoid using electrical adapters, a multi-socket bar is safer.
Do not store gas cylinders inside your home.
Consider purchasing a fire blanket for the kitchen and a small fire extinguisher.
Never leave children alone in the house; it is an offence to leave children under the age of 14 alone. Keep all matches and lighters out of their reach.
Do not leave pans of hot fat or oil unattended.
Never throw water on an electrical appliance, or burning oil such as a chip pan fire.
Don't smoke in bed

Safety always come first
Get everyone out
Close all windows and doors behind you
Dial 999 to call the Fire & Rescue Service
Don't go back in
If you live in a block of flats that has a lift, never use it in an emergency, always use the stairs