The importance of fire safety within the home and workplace should never, ever be underestimated. You only have to read that there were 36,283 dwelling fires in the UK in 2018/19, according to Home Office statistics, to understand that fires can happen anytime, anywhere.

It’s only natural that you’d rather not imagine that such a traumatic experience could ever happen to you as the thought may be distressing. In saying this, however, it’s fundamental you have the measures in place to help reduce the risks.

We’ve put together 10 top tips for ensuring fire safety in the home and workplace.

Regularly check electrical appliances (and switch them off when not in use!)

As we continuously see a rise in the use of technology, it’s important to keep in mind that the risk of fire also rises. Electricity is a major cause of accidental fires in UK homes – over 20,000 each year, and should be treated with the care and consideration they need in your home or workplace.

Get familiar with your building procedures

Most fundamental for those who live or work in a block of flats or an apartment complex, understanding your building procedures is the first rule of fire safety. Not only should you ensure that any communal fire preventing and detecting equipment has been regularly inspected, but you should also investigate escape routes.

Invest in quality fire detection and alarms

Fire alarm systems are one of the best investments your home and business can make to ensure it is protected from fire. Always has been, always will be. If this blog has made you ask yourself ‘where’s thebest fire alarm installers near me?’ check out Durham-based CDS Security & Fire.

Keep the environment clean and tidy

Untidy workplaces and houses contain more health and safety hazards than clean and tidy ones, and many of these hazards are related to fire safety. More clutter means that there are more items that can catch and fuel fire, not to mention the potential hazard of escape routes becoming inaccessible.

Create an emergency escape plan

Although it’s not nice to imagine that one day a dangerous fire could take place, it’s important you prepare for the worst. What good is burying your head in the sand? Instead, create an emergency escape plan and make sure that your family, staff and customers are all aware of what to do in the event of a fire.

Keep smokers away from the building

Smoking kills in more ways than the obvious! Smoking was the leading cause of home fire deaths for the five year period of 2012-2016. Overall, one of every 31 home smoking material fires resulted in death. If you are a smoker, or if anybody you share a building with smokes, be sure to establish thorough rules. All smokers should smoke outside the building and be absolutely sure the end has been fully extinguished before walking away.