This week is Family safety week, each day we are sending you advice to help keep you and your family safe. 

Today’s focus is: Fire safety

Smoke alarms fitted and in good working order are essential – they save lives!

They provide early warning and give time to escape in the event of a fire within your home.  Please test them regularly. You should have a smoke alarm on each level of your home. Do not put them in or near kitchens or bathrooms where smoke or steam may set them off by accident. 

In some circumstances North Yorkshire Fire and rescue service will supply and install smoke alarms free of charge find out more online at: Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms - North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service or call the fire safety advice line on 01609 780150. 

 NEVER

Remove smoke alarm batteries except when changing them. 

Have smoke alarms in or near to kitchens or bathrooms – where they may be accidentally set off

Leave washing machines, tumble dryers, dishwashers on overnight

Leave candles unattended – extinguish them before you leave the room or go to sleep!

Place candles on a plastic surface

Overload plug sockets – check the amp limit for extension leads to ensure you are not overloading it!

Leave cooking unattended

Put anything metal in the microwave

Throw water on an oil fire

ALWAYS

Test smoke alarms regularly

Keep exits clear

Keep door and window keys where everyone in the family can find them

Be prepared – ensure everyone knows how to escape if they need to

Keep candles away from curtains and furnishings

Stop using a cable if it is frayed or worn

Use fireguards to protect from embers/ sparks

Keep chimneys and flues clean and well maintained. 

Ensure ash/ embers are completely cold before putting into a wheelie bin. 

Check cookers/ hobs are switched off when finished cooking

Clean your oven and grill. A build up of fat and grease can cause fire. 

Keep loose clothing and tea towels away from flames. They can quickly catch fire. 

Keep electrical items away from water

AVOID

Charging electrical items overnight

Having candles anywhere they may be knocked or pets or children could get near to them

Using laptops on soft surfaces such as sofas, beds or carpets which can restrict airflow. 

If there is a fire: GET OUT, STAY OUT AND CALL 999!

If you live in a High rise building the above still applies but also :

avoid using lifts and balconies. 

Ensure there is nothing in corridors or stairways that could catch fire such as cardboard boxes. 

How often should you sweep a chimney?

We recommend you should get your chimney swept at least:

When should I get my chimney swept?

The best time to have your chimney swept is just before heating season or after your stove has not been used for a prolonged period of time. If your chimney requires sweeping twice a year, the second time should be after the peak of the heating season.

How do I know if I need to book a chimney sweep?

Apart from regular, planned servicing and sweeping, there are some signs you need to stop using your appliance and book a chimney sweep.

These can include:

There is a free home fire safety check online: Online Home Fire Safety Check - North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service

North Yorkshire Fire and rescue service offer a free home fire safety advice visit. Request a visit here: Book a Home Fire Safety Visit - North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service