Skip to site navigation

Accessibility Options

Font size

Colour scheme

Fire safety

 
Did you know that there are more than 50,000 accidental fires in homes throughout Britain every year? That's nearly 140 a day.

There are simple, inexpensive precautions you can take that could end up saving your life.

  • Keep all fires and heaters well-guarded, especially open fires. For children, use a nursery guard with side clips that fit into fixed wall brackets.
  • Keep portable heaters and candles away from furniture and curtains.
  • Don’t dry or air clothes over or near the fire, or the cooker.
  • Don't smoke in bed.
  • If there are children around, keep matches and lighters well out of reach.

Smoke alarms

Smoke alarms cost from as little as £5 from most DIY stores and are easy to fit. Choose an alarm that meets the British Standard BS5446 Part 1 and carries the Kitemark.

Fire extinguishers and fire blankets

Keeping a fire extinguisher or fire blanket in your home many help you tackle a small fire before it gets out of control.

Find information about the type of extinguisher you should buy on the Fire Kills website.

Plan an escape route

Escaping from a fire is always easier if you have a planned escape route and everyone knows what to do.

Make sure everyone in your family knows the escape route from each room and where door and window keys are kept. 

If an escape route is blocked, it may be safer to stay put - find a suitable room now.

Where can I find out more?

You can find lots of information and tips for keeping your home safe on the Fire Kills website.

Related links

Information on arson 
Fire services

A to Z of Services

Contact information

Useful links