Our fire safety checklist

Home fires can happen when you least expect them and the effects can be devastating. 

Thankfully, there are plenty of steps you can take to reduce the danger of fire in your home, especially at night, when the risk of fatality is greatest. Following this routine at bedtime could save a life: 

• Close inside doors at night – if a fire does occur, this can stop it from spreading and buy you valuable time to exit your property safely
• Turn off and unplug all electrical appliances, with the exception of those that are designed to be left running, such as your freezer
• Check your cooker is turned off
• Don't leave your washing machine or tumble dryer on overnight
• Turn heaters off and put up fireguards
• Make sure you put out any candles you're burning before you go to bed. Never leave a candle burning overnight or while you're asleep
• Similarly, check cigarettes are properly put out using an ash tray. Never throw a lit or smouldering cigarette or fresh ash into a bin
• Make sure exits are kept clear, and keep door and window keys easily accessible where everyone can find them
• Unplug and turn off any laptops and computers.

For more information and advice about fire safety in your home, please visit the government’s official fire safety information page. It’s full of helpful information and practical advice and covers everything from smoke alarms to escape plans.