Smoke alarms
- Fit one on every floor, ideally in every bedroom.
- Test them once a month.
- Change the battery at least once a year.
Home Chimney sweeping Fire safety at home
How to improve fire safety in your home
Facts and tips from people who see the aftermath of fires — and of fire protection that worked.
Fire extinguisher
- Recommended: a powder extinguisher of at least 6 kg.
- Keep it within easy reach, for example in the hall.
- Check that the pressure gauge is in the green.
Fire blanket
- Ideal in the kitchen or near an open fireplace.
- Effective against grease fires and clothing fires.
- Store it where you can reach it quickly.
Electrics and electronics
- Avoid overloading sockets and extension leads.
- Switch appliances off at the switch, not just with the remote control.
- Have an electrician inspect older installations.
Candles
- Use stable candle holders made of non-combustible material.
- Always put candles out when you leave the room.
- Keep them away from curtains, decorations and children.
Fire safety in the kitchen
- Never leave the hob unattended.
- Keep a lid nearby so you can quickly smother a grease fire.
- Clean grease from the cooker hood regularly.
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Fireplaces and stoves
- Have the chimney and fireplace swept and fire safety inspected at the statutory intervals.
- Burn only dry wood — never rubbish or plastic.
- Use a spark guard in front of the fireplace.
- Make sure there is enough ventilation when the fire is lit.
- Empty ash pans carefully, and store ash outdoors in a metal bucket with a lid.
Close doors at night
Sleeping with interior doors closed can save lives — it slows the spread of smoke and fire.
Smoking
- Never smoke in bed.
- Use large, heavy ashtrays.
- Empty ashtrays into a wet bag, never straight into the bin.
Escape plan
- Go through it with the whole family.
- Agree on a meeting point outdoors.
- Practise at least once a year.
Smart technology
- Smart smoke alarms can alert your phone.
- Some systems can also be connected to an alarm receiving centre.
Chimney fire: call 112
Close hatches and dampers, call 112 and keep an eye on the chimney — including in the attic and where the flue passes through floors. After a chimney fire the chimney must always be inspected before it is used again.