Explore key fire safety guidelines to protect your home and ensure the safety of everyone inside.

Fire Safety: Protecting Your Home and Loved Ones

Ensuring fire safety in your home is essential to protect your family and belongings from potential fire hazards.

By following key safety tips and guidelines, you can minimise the risk of fires and be prepared in case of an emergency. Below, we address common questions and provide practical advice to help you stay safe.

How can you ensure fire safety in your home?

Regular Fire Safety Checks:
New Outlook conducts fire safety checks to ensure your home meets all safety standards. It’s important to allow access for these checks to maintain a safe environment.

Install and Test Smoke Alarms:
Ensure smoke alarms are installed in key areas of your home. Test them regularly by pressing the test button and replace batteries as needed.

What are the main causes of home fires?

Understanding common fire hazards can help you prevent them:

• Cooking: Never leave cooking unattended. Keep flammable items away from the hob and oven.
• Candles: Always extinguish candles when leaving a room and keep them away from flammable materials.
• Electrical Appliances: Ensure appliances are in good working condition and avoid overloading sockets.

How can you prevent fire hazards?

Preventing fire hazards involves these key steps:

• Regular Maintenance: Check appliances and electrical wiring for signs of wear and tear. Replace or repair faulty items.
• Safe Use of Heating Equipment: Keep heaters away from flammable materials and never leave them unattended.
• Proper Storage: Store flammable liquids safely and keep them away from heat sources.

What should you do if a fire starts in your home?

Knowing how to respond to a fire can save lives:

• Raise the Alarm: Shout to alert others and activate the nearest fire alarm if available.
• Evacuate Immediately: Leave the building by the nearest exit. Do not use lifts.
• Call Emergency Services: Dial 999 and provide your location and details of the fire.
• Stay Out: Do not re-enter the building until it is declared safe by the fire brigade.

How can you create a fire escape plan?

Having a clear escape plan is crucial:

• Identify Exits: Know the primary and secondary exits from each room in your home.
• Practice Drills: Regularly practise fire drills with your family to ensure everyone knows the escape routes.
• Keep Exits Clear: Ensure hallways and doors are free from obstructions to allow a quick escape.

How do you maintain fire safety equipment?

Regular maintenance of fire safety equipment is essential:

• Check Fire Extinguishers: Ensure they are accessible and check the pressure gauge regularly.
• Inspect Smoke Alarms: Test smoke alarms monthly and replace batteries at least once a year.
• Fire Doors: Ensure fire doors close properly and are not wedged open. Report any faults to New Outlook.

What should you do if you live in a flat?

Fire safety in flats requires special attention:

• Know Your Building’s Fire Plan: Familiarise yourself with the building’s evacuation plan and assembly point.
• Check Your Front Door: Ensure it is a fire-rated door that closes fully on its own.
• Use Fire Escapes: Do not use balconies or windows unless they are part of the designated escape route.

Need further assistance?

If you have any questions or need further help with fire safety, contact New Outlook. Our team is here to ensure your home remains safe and secure.