Five fire safety checks you can do in under five minutes | Tenant news

Did you know fires break out in UK homes more than 100 times every single day?

Last year alone, fire and rescue services responded to 38,000 fires in UK homes. Most home fires are preventable, which is why making regular fire safety checks is an important step in protecting your home and family.

Here are five quick checks you can do at home.

1. Test your smoke alarms

Smoke alarms are one of the most important safety features in your home. Press the test button on each alarm and listen for a strong clear beep, which shows it is working properly.

If the sound is weak or there is no noise at all, the battery may need replacing or the alarm may no longer work.

If reaching the alarm is difficult because of mobility or balance issues, it is fine to ask a friend, carer or family member to help.

2. Keep exits clear

Having a clear exit route is vital in an emergency. Take a quick look at your main exit and any other escape route to check nothing is blocking the way.

Shoes, bags and boxes can easily build up without being noticed and may become trip hazards, especially at night.

Make sure doors open fully and easily and keep walking aids or wheelchairs where you can reach them quickly.

3. Check appliances, plugs and cables

Most accidental fires in the home start in the kitchen, which makes this check especially important.

Check your cooker to make sure all rings are switched off and nothing flammable has been left nearby.

Ensure plugs and cables are not damaged, trapped or overloaded. If a socket feels warm or looks crowded, unplug what you can and spread appliances across different sockets where possible.

4. Use heat safely

It’s important that tenants are mindful when using all types of heaters, including portable heaters and fixed storage heaters such as Dimplex storage heaters.

Make sure any portable heaters you use are placed on a flat surface with space around them and switch them off whenever you leave the room.

All heaters should be kept well away from bedding, blankets, curtains and furniture, and must never be used for drying clothes.

Storage heaters must not be covered or have items placed on top of them, as this can cause overheating and increase the risk of fire.

People with mobility issues are especially at risk of tripping or falling onto a heater. Please ensure they, and you, are always sat at least one metre away from a heater to prevent burns and other injuries.

If you use candles, they should be in sturdy holders that can’t be easily knocked over and kept away from pets, curtains, bedding, and furniture.

You can now complete fire safety checks online and get useful tips and advice. Simply enter your address and postcode at www.safelincs.co.uk.

For more fire safety advice and resources visit https://www.habinteg.org.uk/fire.

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