Fire Safety

Stay safe - Fire Safety in your home

Living in a communal block doesn't mean you are any more at risk from fire, but it does mean that you need to consider your own fire safety and how a fire in your home could impact on other residents in your block.

It is important for your own safety to understand what to do in the event of a fire, whether it's in your flat or somewhere else in the building.

If there is a fire or smoke in your flat:

• Where safe to do so close the door of the room where the fire is
• Alert any other people in the flat
• Get out, closing all doors behind you
• Stay out
• Call the fire service by dialling 999. Never assume someone else has called
• Always use the stairs to get out of the building
• Don't go back into the building until the fire service says it is safe to do so

If there is a fire in another part of the building:

It will normally be safest for you to stay in your flat.

But, if you do feel unsafe or your flat is affected by heat or smoke, then get out and call the fire service by dialling 999. If a member of the fire service tells you to leave the building, you should do so immediately.

If you are cut off by fire:

• If your escape route is blocked by fire or smoke, stay inside the safest room with a window that opens and ring 999
• Keep the door closed and use towels or bedding at the bottom of the door to block the smoke
• if you are trapped, go to the balcony or window so that you can be seen - but don't jump
• Wait to be rescued by a firefighter

Fire safety in your home

• You should have at least one smoke detector installed. If not contact us and we will fit one free of charge
• Test your smoke alarm once a week
• Keep door and window keys accessible
• Keep your doorways and hallways free from clutter
• Close all doors at night, especially the doors to the lounge and kitchen, to prevent fire spreading
• Your front door is a fire door - it keeps you and your neighbours safe. Never prop it open or remove the metal arm or chain which closes it
• Make an escape plan so that you and your family know what to do if there is a fire in your flat
• Never leave cooking unattended and don't start cooking if you are very tired or are under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Maintain electrical goods and ensure you turn off appliances not intended to remain an for long periods, such as irons or hair straighteners
• Don't overload plug sockets or extension leads
• If you smoke, make sure you put cigarettes out properly and don't smoke in bed or while drowsy
• Take care with candles. Never leave one unattended and use a proper heat resistant holder on a stable surface away from draughts and flammable materials such as curtains

Fire safety in your block

• Keep all landings, corridors and doorways clear of obstructions, including rubbish
• Never wedge communal doors open
• Don't keep things in your home or communal areas that burn easily. This includes bottled gas, paraffin heaters or liquid fuel
• Never block emergency access to your building. Park considerately so emergency vehicles can get as close as possible
• Get to know your neighbours. They may be young, elderly or vulnerable, and need help during an emergency