Fire safety and Coronavirus: Your lockdown to-do list
Advice to stay at home during the Coronavirus pandemic means that most of us will be spending more time indoors.
To make sure your home is as safe from fire risks as possible, go through the points below while looking around your home.
Smoke alarms
You should have at least one working smoke alarm on every level of your home. NEVER take the batteries out of your smoke alarm and check them regularly to ensure they are working.
Heaters
NEVER use electrical heaters to dry clothes, keep them well away from curtains, furniture and other flammable materials. ALWAYS switch off and unplug your heaters before going to bed.
Smoking
If you smoke, use a proper ashtray and make sure it is placed on a level surface away from combustible materials. Make sure your cigarettes are fully extinguished and don’t leave lit cigarettes unattended. Don't smoke in bed – you could easily fall asleep while your cigarette is still burning and cause a fire. Never smoke when under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If your lit cigarette starts a fire you could be less able to escape. Keep matches out of children’s reach.
E-cigarettes
Never leave e-cigarettes on charge unattended for long periods of time. Do not mix components of different e-cigarettes. Only use the charger supplied with your device. Ensure you purchase your e-cigarette and charger from a reputable source and check the e-cigarette carries CE certification.
Candles
Keep candles and tea lights away from anything that can catch fire. NEVER leave lit candles unattended – make sure they are fully extinguished before leaving the room or going to bed.
Cooking
Keep cooking areas clear from combustible materials. Make sure your oven and grill are clean – a build-up of fat or grease can cause a fire. DON'T leave pans unattended while cooking and NEVER leave children or pets unattended in the kitchen.
Escape routes
Make sure everyone in your household knows how to get out in the event of a fire. Ensure escape routes are clear from clutter. Keep your door and window keys in a known and accessible place.
In the event of a fire, get out, stay out and call 999.
Information adapted from Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service. For more information visit: https://www.merseyfire.gov.uk/aspx/pages/LatestN