You & Your Family
How will you get out if your home goes on fire? Read our helpful guide.
Fire Safety & Older People
As we get older our needs change. Fortunately, there are special systems available for people who can't see or hear so well.
Even if we've lived in a place for a long time, it's always worth checking that alarms are present and working and that the property is generally safe from fire.
- Smoke Alarms
- Getting Help in an Emergency
- Care Homes
- Is the Mains Wiring in Your House Safe?
- Electric Blankets
Smoke alarms
If there's a fire, how will you know?
There are special alarms for older people, and for people with disabilities and other special needs:
- mains powered smoke alarms that have back-up batteries - no hassles replacing batteries
- vibrating pads and/or flashing lights that warn people with hearing impairments
Always fit a smoke alarm in the bedroom of a person who smokes in bed, or who uses an electric blanket.
Read more about smoke alarms.
Getting Help in an Emergency
People who may need assistance in escaping in a fire must have some means of calling for help.
Systems include:
- a buzzer or intercom
- a telephone with an automatically dialled emergency number
- a private or local authority assistance alert scheme
If you live in sheltered accommodation but are not sure how you could call for help in an emergency, ask your warden for details.
Care Homes
Residential care homes must have proper fire detection systems fitted. Care homes built since 1st May 2005 must also have sprinkler systems. A Fire Action Notice should be displayed clearly.
All care home staff must know what to do in an emergency so that everyone is able to leave the building safely and quickly.
Is the Mains Wiring in Your Home Safe?
Mains wiring inside domestic houses should be checked over by a qualified electrician at least every ten years.
If it's your home, keep a record by the meter of when this was last done. If your home is rented and you're in any doubt, consult your landlord.
Read more on fire safety and electricity.
Electric Blankets
Electric blankets don't last forever. After the guarantee runs out - usually after 3 years - you should have the blanket tested and serviced regularly by the manufacturer. Check the cost first, however - it might be cheaper to buy a new blanket.
Your new blanket should be approved by BEAB or marked BS EN 60907. It's best if it's fitted with an overheat protection safety system.
Use your blanket safely:
- always follow the manufacturer's instructions
- never leave an electric blanket switched on when you're in bed unless it's marked 'suitable for all night use'
- tie under-blankets securely to the bed
- check the blanket, plug and flex regularly for damage (e.g. fraying fabric, scorch marks, exposed wires). If in any doubt, do not use.
- store electric blankets safely - roll them, don't fold them.
Read more on fire safety and electricity.