Think fire safety first - see our tips | Tenant news

In the past year, we carried out fire safety checks on all flats and communal fire doors ahead of the introduction of the government’s Fire Safety Bill to improve fire safety in buildings.

With Fire Safety Week, 31 October to 4 November, just finished, we want to remind you of how to ensure that you and your neighbours stay safe in the event of a fire.

Fire doors on schemes

Fire doors slow the spread of fire and smoke from one room to the next for between 30 to 60 minutes. This protects lives. Never leave a fire door open and always leave them clear of any obstructions.

Do not make any adjustments to fire doors. You may affect the door’s mechanism putting everyone at risk.

If you believe adjustments need to be made, please contact Habinteg Direct on 0300 365 3100 or email direct@habinteg.org.uk.

Fire safety tips 

Most fires start in the kitchen. Keep your kitchen safe:

• Avoid fat build-up in your pans
• Never use water to put out an oil pan fire – drop a damp cloth on top, or the lid
• Never leave your cooking unattended
• Don’t cook if you are drunk or affected by strong medications
• Regularly test your smoke detector
• Vacuum your smoke alarm to remove any dust

To prevent electrical fires:

• Only use electrical appliances that have a British or European safety mark
• Do not overload your fridge freezer/ freezers beyond it’s capacity
• Do not put electrical leads under carpets
• Avoid charging your mobile phone when you’re asleep
• If you have a tumble dryer, remove fluff build-up regularly
• Keep clothes, furniture, and curtains away from heaters
• Unplug appliances when they are not in use

Be prepared if a fire does break out:

• Know the fire evacuation plan for your building
• Know your escape routes
• Make sure you know where the keys to the front door and windows are kept
• Learn how to navigate any stairs in darkness, so if there was thick smoke you could do the same
• If you have restricted mobility, make sure you let someone in charge of the building know so a plan can be put in place for you in case of a fire

You can find more fire safety tips on our website by visiting our Health and Safety page.