Safeguard your home from Fire

Is your home safe from Fire? Do you know the potential dangers to look out for?

UK National Fire Statistics from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister show that in 2004, 375 people died in accidental fires in the home.

Whilst Surrey is a very safe place to live, fires can and do happen. To prevent fires occurring in the first place, firefighters from Surrey Fire and Rescue Service suggest the following ten easy steps you can take to help protect yourself and your home from fire:

  1. Fit smoke alarms on each floor, keep them dust free, and test them once a week.
  2. Make a fire action plan so that everyone in your home knows how to escape in the event of fire.
  3. Keep exits clear of obstructions so people can escape. Make sure occupants can find keys for doors and windows easily.
  4. Take care in the kitchen - accidents while cooking account for 59% of fires in the home.  And take extra care when cooking with hot oil.
  5. Never leave lit candles unattended and ensure they are in a holder on a heat resistant surface, away from flammable materials.
  6. Ensure cigarettes are stubbed out and disposed of carefully. And never smoke in bed.
  7. Don't overload sockets. Remember one socket - one plug.
  8. Keep matches and lighters out of reach of children.
  9. Take extra care when you are tired or have been drinking. Half of all fires in the home happen between 10pm and 8am.
  10. Always switch the TV and other electrical appliances off rather than leaving on standby and unplug when not in use.

And remember, If there is a fire - get out, stay out and call 999

Let us help you to protect your home - with a Free Home Fire Risk Check

All Surrey households can receive a free Home Fire Risk Check, as part of Surrey Fire and Rescue Service's on-going drive to reduce the number of fires in the county.

The Home Fire Risk Check will involve a visit from your local fire station using a simple questionnaire. Local firefighters will look round your home and identify any potential problem areas. They will then offer advice on the installation and maintenance of smoke alarms and if required, provide smoke alarms free of charge. 

Having identified any potential fire hazards in your home, the firefighters will give you guidance to help stay safe. This may include matters such as kitchen hazards, disposal of smoking materials, producing an escape plan, using heaters, candles and the safe keeping of electric blankets.

To request a Home Fire Risk Check or to find out more about any of the subjects mentioned, please call Surrey Fire and Rescue Service on freephone 0800 085 0767 or visit http://www.surrey-fire.gov.uk/