Make sure your new home is fire safe
Shockingly, there were 49,000 house fires in UK homes last year with 90 deaths resulting from a lack of a working smoke alarms alone. As celebrities sign up to take part in the latest government campaign, pledging to regularly test smoke alarms, reallymoving.com, the UK’s leading provider of instant online quotes for home-movers, says fire safety should start from the moment you move into a new home.
1. Fit a smoke alarm
Fitting smoke alarms in your new home is the simplest step you can take. If the previous owners left you theirs, make sure it conforms to British Standard 5446, Part 1 (BS 5446-1), if not buy a new one. Arriving with a couple of smoke alarms just in case is the best policy.
2. Store matches and electrical items safely on moving day
Keep matches and small electrical items in clearly marked boxes and out of the way of children. Cover sockets and install cupboard locks as soon as possible if toddlers are on the loose. Keep electrical leads away from high traffic areas and remember to unplug appliances at night unless they are designed to remain on like freezers.
3. Check electrical appliances
Avoid overloading sockets which can lead to overheating and check plugs to make sure the move has not dislodged wiring. Faulty electrics (appliances, wiring and overloaded sockets) cause around 7,000 house fires across the country every year. All cooker and boiler installations should be carried out by approved by a Gas Safe Registered engineer, visit gassaferegister.co.uk for more details.
4. Choose an escape route
Make sure everyone in your home knows the best way to leave the house if there is a fire, and that the exit is clear at all times. If doors are double locked at any time ensure everyone knows where the keys are kept.
5. Know the building procedures
If it’s a block of flats you’re moving in to make sure you are aware of the fire procedures and that any communal fire fighting equipment has been regularly inspected. Investigate escape routes and make sure communal alarms are operating and that evacuation procedures are clear. Check your lease and ask your solicitor for clarification.
6. Check the chimney
Open fires have made a come-back but before lighting one ensure that the chimney has been swept. This includes chimneys being used as flues for gas fires. Ask your solicitor for receipts from the seller to show a sweep has been carried out or arrange for one before the winter sets in.
7. Fit carbon monoxide detectors
Around 50 people a year die from carbon monoxide poisoning due to faulty heating appliances. Carbon monoxide poisoning can result from burning all fossil fuels not just gas fires and boilers. Check when your boiler or heating appliances were last serviced. Carbon monoxide detectors should comply with British Standard BS 7860 - but remember they are only warning devices and should not be substituted for regular servicing.
8. Invest in fire safety equipment
Fire extinguishers and fire blankets can be used in the home but it is extremely important you know exactly how to use each one and obtain advice from direct.gov.uk – support and safety in your home.
9. Designate a fire room
Chose a fire room with the advice of a fire officer (see below) where you can wait for the fire brigade if you are prevented from escaping from the house. The room should be easily visible from the outside and have a telephone.
10. Arrange a fire safety check
Many Fire and Rescue Services offer a fire safety risk assessment for free. To request a visit go to fireservice.co.uk to locate your local fire service and download fire safety leaflets.
Rosemary Rogers, Director, reallymoving.com comments:
“House fire statistics are shocking, yet safety is often the last item on the agenda when people move home. It’s important not only to install simple fire safety measures but also to check regularly that they are still working. Spending a few minutes going through our 10 point check list will ensure the best and safest start to life in a new home and may even save you and your family’s life.”