Avoiding Fire

No one wants to think about having a fire at home. But thinking about it and being ready for it can and does save lives.

Having working smoke alarms in your home gives you early warning if there is a fire. Planning and practicing a fire drill can prepare you to get out safely. Firemen know this and they will tell you that most fire / deaths and injuries happens in homes.

Plan in advance

Smoke alarm is the simplest single step you can take to cut the risk of dying from fire in your home. They are available in supermarkets and high street shops. If your home covers more than one floor, you should fit at least one smoke alarm on each floor.

A few fire safety tips

• Fit smoke alarms on each level in your home on the ceiling and in hallways and landings
• keep them free from dust and test them once a week consider buying a ten-year alarm; otherwise, change the batteries in your alarms every year.
• avoid leaving children in the kitchen alone when cooking - keep matches and saucepan handles out of their reach
• take care when cooking with hot oil - it can catch fire easily
• don't overload electrical sockets - try and keep to one plug per socket
• stub cigarettes out properly and dispose of the carefully
• be careful with candles and make sure they are secured in a proper holder and away from materials that may catch fire - like curtains
• be prepared by making a plan of escape
• don't tackle a fire yourself: leave it to the professionals - get out, stay out and call 999
• make a bedtime check.

Bedtime checks

There are certain checks you should make before going to bed. By following the simple steps below, you can reduce the fire risks around your home:

• close inside doors at night to stop a fire from spreading
• turn off and unplug electrical appliances unless they are designed to be left on - like your freezer
• check your cooker is turned off
• don't leave the washing machine on
• turn heaters off and put up fireguards to protect open fires
• put candles and cigarettes out properly
• make sure exits are kept clear
• keep door and window keys where someone can find them

Download a Fire Safety in the Home leaflet here

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