Test your smoke alarms regularly
- Test all battery-powered smoke alarms in your home once a week.
- Put in new batteries when they run out.
- If you're not sure how to test yours, please get in touch.
Make it easy to get out
- Keep the exits in your home clear so it's quick and easy to get out.
- Make sure the door and window keys are easy to find.
- Know where your fire escape staircases are and it they're nearer than the main staircase.
- Decide on the easiest way out of your home and outside. Make sure everyone knows what it is and what the fire procedure for your building is.
Keep self-closing doors closed
- Don't wedge self-closing doors open - these help stop smoke and fire spreading.
Use electrical equipment with care
- Switch off and unplug electrical equipment before you go to bed, except things like fridges and freezers.
- Don't plug too many things into any socket.
- If an electrical lead is frayed, get it repaired.
- If a plug or socket is hot or scorched get it checked by a qualified electrician.
- If an electrical fire starts in your home, pull out the plug at the wall or switch off the power at the fuse box.
- Never pour water on electrical appliances or on a fire that's been caused by an electrical appliance.
- For peace of mind, use BS-rated electrical appliances.
Take care when cooking
- Most fires start in the kitchen, so take extra care here.
- Never leave pans with hot oil or other fat on the cooker if you're not watching them.
- If the oil or fat starts burning, don't throw water on it. Turn off the heat and get out.
- Keep children out of the kitchen when you're cooking.
- If a fire starts in the oven, switch it off and keep the door closed.
- Double check your cooker and oven are off when you're finished cooking.
Be prepared
- Read our advice on what to do if there's a fire. Then you'll know exactly what to do if one does start.
Read the government's guide to fire safety.