You are over 7 times more likely to die in a fire in the home if there are no working smoke alarms.
Smoke alarms only take a moment to test but they give you and your family the best chance of surviving a fire.
Last year, 248 people lost their lives due to a fire at home. Many of these could have been prevented. Everyday fire risks are present in our homes. Well-known risks include candles and cooking left unattended, covered electrical heaters, overloaded plugs, and cigarettes.
Watch this video to see the steps you can take to prevent an accidental fire in the home.
Stay safe from fire in the home
Here are a few ways to keep you and your family, friends and neighbours safe:
- install smoke alarms on every level of your home and make sure you can hear them throughout your home
- test your smoke alarms monthly – they could save your life, but only if they are working
- offer to test the smoke alarms of an older family member, neighbour or friend who needs help
- plan and practise how you’d escape in a fire and have a plan B
- most accidental fires start in the kitchen, so take care and never leave cooking unattended
- don’t overload plug sockets and adapters – watch out for loose wiring, scorch marks, and hot plugs and sockets
- keep heaters clear from curtains and furniture and never use them to dry clothes
- stub cigarettes out properly and dispose of them carefully – put it out, right out
By following these quick and simple steps, we can reduce the number of fatalities and injuries caused by accidental fires.
A simple maintenance plan will ensure that your smoke alarm continues to protect your family. Test smoke alarms regularly (generally by pushing the button, but check on your manufacturer’s instructions for how to test). Gently remove dust and dirt from inside the casing and on the cover. The soft brush attachment of your vacuum can be used.
Further information
Learn more about your responsibilities as a landlord
Learn more about your responsibilities as a tenant
