Keep communal areas safe by preventing fire risks | Tenant news

Communal areas such as corridors, stairwells, lounges, and laundry rooms are shared by everyone, so it’s essential to keep them free from fire hazards.

Even a small fire can spread quickly in shared spaces, putting both tenants and staff at risk. By taking a few simple precautions,you can reduce the risk of fire and help keep everyone safe.

Clear escape routes

Always keep hallways, staircases, and exits free from obstructions.

Items like bicycles, prams, and boxes can block escape routes in an emergency. Make sure doors open easily and are not locked or blocked.

Habinteg regularly checks that emergency exits are clearly marked and accessible. If you notice any issues, such as blocked corridors or damaged doors, please report them as soon as possible by calling Habinteg Direct on 0300 365 3100 or emailing direct@habinteg.org.uk. This helps us resolve problems promptly and keep everyone safe.

Don't tamper or interfere with any self-closing devices fitted to fire doors. These are intended to close doors in the event of a fire.

Know your building’s evacuation plan and the quickest way to exit in an emergency. If you have visitors, make sure they are aware of the escape routes.

Things to avoid

materials such as gas cylinders, paints, or cardboard should never be stored in communal areas because they can ignite easily.

Be careful with electrical items in shared spaces. Avoid using extension cords or plug-in heaters in corridors and only use approved appliances. Always switch off devices when not in use.

Cooking in communal areas can cause fires and smoke hazards. Always use designated kitchens and never leave appliances unattended.

Smoking isn't allowed in communal areas. If you choose to smoke inside your own property, never throw cigarettes on the floor, out of a window or over a balcony. Always make sure you put cigarettes out fully and dispose of them correctly.

Never disable or remove smoke alarms around your scheme. If a smoke alarm is damaged or not working, report it to us immediately by calling Habinteg Direct on 0300 365 3100, so it can be repaired or replaced.

Reporting fires and hazards

If you notice a fire risk around your scheme, report it immediately to our Customer Services Team, Habinteg Direct on 0300 365 3100. This includes damaged smoke alarms, blocked fire doors, or faulty electrical fittings. Prompt reporting can prevent small issues from becoming serious incidents.

Fires are rare, but if one does occur, knowing what to do can save lives. If you discover a fire in a communal area, leave straight away and activate any nearby alarm to alert others.

Call 999 as soon as it is safe to do so, and do not attempt to tackle the fire unless you have been trained.

Avoid using lifts during a fire and follow designated escape routes. If you envisage needing help to leave the building in the event of a fire due to restricted mobility or a disability, or for any other reason, inform us as soon as possible and we'll put a specific plan in place for you and alert the fire service to your needs.

Tenants living in houses should leave the property immediately and not return until the fire service confirms it is safe.

If you live in a flat, follow the safety instructions on notices displayed in your building, and evacuate immediately if you see smoke, feel unsafe, or are told to leave.

For more information, visit www.habinteg.org.uk/fire.

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