Free home fire safety checks -
Get Smart, Get Equipped, Get Out!

Last year Dorset Fire and Rescue Service attended many accidental dwelling fires, which could have been avoided if people were more aware of basic fire safety in their homes. Being aware of the dangers of fire and taking preventative measures could help save the lives of you and your family. Your home is full of potential fire risks, if you are aware of these risks you can ensure that you GET SMART and reduce the chances of a fire starting in your home.

Seasonal Safety Advice offered by the Dorset Fire and Rescue Service

The list below highlights some of the most common causes of house fires:-

 

SMOKING

Always use proper ashtrays and ensure that cigarettes are put out properly! Remember it is easy to be careless when you are tired or you have been drinking.

CANDLES

Always use a proper holder. Don't leave them unattended. Ensure you put them out completely at night.

LIGHTS

Use common sense and keep lights away from combustible items (like curtains and other fabrics).

COOKING

Never leave a saucepan (this includes chip pans and deep-frying) on the heat if you are called away and keep the top of your cooker clean. Keep toasters away from curtains.

HEATERS AND FIRES

Always position heaters at least one metre (3 ft) from combustibles such as furniture, curtains or clothing.

OVERLOADED OR FAULTY ELECTRICS

Be careful not to overload sockets - use the correct adaptor and do not plug as adaptor into an adaptor. Always turn off electrical appliances at the wall, and never mend cables with insulating tape.

• Fires strike when you least expect them, often during the night, so ensure that you and your loved ones have an escape plan of what to do and where to go in the event of a fire. Be aware that fire spreads quickly but it is the smoke that is the real killer. If you are asleep when a fire starts and you don;t have an alarm to wake you, your chances of surviving are zero. GET EQUIPPED. Smoke alarms are a proven lifesaver.
• Finally if you are unfortunate enough to experience a fire in your home, GET OUT, CALL US (999), STAY OUT.