The number of house fires are rising, so it’s more important than ever to keep your home safe. From fireproof safes to escape routes, there are a number of ways to prepare for an unfortunate event. In this blog, we’ll be sharing 10 simple steps to avoid a house fire.
Why is the number of house fires rising?
People’s actions and attitudes towards responsibility and fire safety impact the rise of house fires.
In fact, government data has revealed that people are being less conscious when it comes to fire safety, with 622,000 reported across England in 2022-23, the highest figures since 2011 and an 8% rise compared to the previous year. Scotland and Wales also saw rises of nearly 8% in their latest released statistics.
London Fire Brigade’s Assistant Commissioner for Fire Safety, Charlie Pugsley, commented: “We know that people will turn to alternative ways to keep their families warm overnight without turning on the heating, we just want to make sure that people are staying safe at the same time. For example, we know that people may want to use portable heaters to heat just one room or use electric blankets in bed. It’s really important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure these items are safety registered and in good working order. If you’re using these items around children always supervise them carefully and place heaters somewhere where they won’t be accidentally knocked over and away from anything that could catch fire.”
How can you prevent a house fire?
To lower the risk of house fires, we’ve put together a list of actions you can take right now. Read on to find out more:
1. Update the batteries in the smoke alarm
We’d recommend testing your smoke alarm once a week to be confident that it is working correctly. Ideally, there should be one on each level of a property/
2. Take extreme caution when cooking
Take pans off the heat if you leave the room and ensure tea towels and oven gloves are away from the hob. Around half of home fires are caused by cooking accidents. If under the influence of alcohol, take extra precautions and avoid cooking.
3. Check fairy lights
Inspect fairy lights for any breaks or splits before using them as they may not have been used in a while. For Christmas lights which may be on a timer, don’t keep them on if you know you’re going to be away from home for a long period of time.
4. Be careful with candles
Confirm that all candles have been blown out before going to bed or leaving the house, as more than three fires a day start this way. Also ensure that fires are completely extinguished so that a chimney fire doesn’t start through the night. Never leave candles or any naked flames unattended.
5. Check electric blankets
Carry out regular inspections on electric blankets. Look for wear and tear such as visible wires or scorch marks and listen to see if the control makes a buzzing sound as this is also a sign of deterioration.
6. Put out cigarettes
Did you know smoking materials are responsible for 36% of fatalities in housefires? Safely discard any cigarettes or ashtrays and do not smoke in the bedroom.
7. Install a carbon monoxide detector
Make sure you have a carbon monoxide detector in place in case of poisoning as this is colourless and odourless. This can cause death in a matter of hours and symptoms include headaches, dizziness and feeling nauseous.
8. Invest in a fireproof safe
Ensure any important home valuables are protected such as jewellery, sentimental items and documents by placing them in a fireproof safe. You can browse our full range of solutions here: Fireproof safes
9. Turn off appliances
Check all appliances such as ovens and hobs are turned off completely after use. Faulty cooking appliances caused an estimated 4,000 house fires every year, so this step is incredibly important.
10. Be prepared
Have an escape route planned so everyone can get to safety during the event of a fire. Think of a secondary way to exit the property in case the first is blocked.
What is the best fireproof safe for home use?
The best fireproof safes are those that can withstand extended exposure to fire. They should also have a good insurance rating, for peace of mind if the unexpected occurs. We have a wide selection of fireproof safe options, each rated with how long they can protect their contents from fire. Browse our range: Fireproof safes
We hope that our 10 simple steps to avoid a house fire have reassured you. We’re the UK number one supplier of safes and locks online. Founded in 2003, we’ve developed our offering to become the go-to destination for security products, with ranges to suit all tastes, needs and budgets. Find out more on our website: Safe
