Fire safety in your flat

If a fire starts in another part of the building

Follow the advice on the specific fire evacuation notice(s) displayed within the communal areas. These are often found near to the exit doors and/or on noticeboards. You must make sure that you read the notice(s) and familiarise yourself and your household with it. You and your other household members must also know all fire exit routes from the building. 

  DO NOT ATTEMPT TO FIGHT THE FIRE.

  DO NOT RE-ENTER the building until you are told it is safe to do so by the Fire and Rescue Service.

What should I be doing to make sure my family is safe?

• Test all your smoke alarms once a month and report any faults. 
• Discuss the evacuation plan with your family so everyone is clear what to do. 
• Keep your escape routes clear – keep keys near the front door. 
• Have a simple bedtime routine: close all internal doors and unplug electrical items not in use. If you smoke, ensure cigarettes are properly put out and do not leave e-cigarettes or vape batteries on charge. 
• Take care with candles and tea lights. NEVER place them on televisions, plastic surfaces or near to soft furnishings/curtains. 
• Keep your grill and oven clean from grease as this can easily catch fire. 
• Take care when cooking and NEVER leave cooking unattended. 
• Do not leave your washing machine, dishwasher or tumble dryer on whilst on a cycle and go out. There are an increasing number of fires being caused by these appliances. 
• Use the correct charger for your mobile phone and do not charge it overnight. Overheating batteries can catch fire. 
• Do not over load electrical sockets Remember: 1 socket = 1 plug. 
• NEVER store or leave pushchairs, bicycles, mobility scooters, refuse or children’s toys in corridors or on landings – these are fire escape routes. 

  Updated: 17 July 2020

  Review date: July 2021