Fire, gas and electrical safety

Fire safety

Smoke alarms are your guardian angels:

Ensure smoke alarms are working. Test them regularly to make sure they can alert you if there’s smoke.

Keep fire doors shut:

Fire doors only prevent fires when they’re closed. Always keep them shut and make sure the closers work.

Plan your escape:

Know your escape routes in case of a fire. Discuss and practice the plan with your household.

Don’t block escape routes:

Items like prams, bikes or rubbish bags shouldn’t be kept in communal areas, stairwells, or entrances to flats. They might block someone escaping a fire.

No overloading, no risk:

Avoid overloading electrical outlets and power strips. It reduces the risk of electrical fires.

Be mindful of cooking hazards:

Never leave cooking unattended. Keep flammable items away from stovetops.

Check your appliances:

Unplug them when they’re not in use, unless they need to be on at all times e.g. fridge/freezer. Keep them clean and in good working order.

Take care with open flames and heaters:

Always use a fire guard and make sure candles are not on or near anything that could catch fire. Make sure heaters aren’t placed too close to anything and not covered.

Extinguish cigarettes:

Take proper care to put out and dispose of cigarettes properly and keep matches and lighters away from children. Never smoke in bed.

Night-time routine:

Every night, remember to close all doors, switch off and unplug appliances.

Gas safety

Annual gas check:

Allow your landlord to enter your home each year to carry out a gas safety check.

Ventilation is vital:

Proper ventilation prevents gas buildup. Keep vents unblocked and well-maintained.

Know the signs of gas leaks:

Familiarise yourself with the signs of gas leaks, such as the smell of gas or hissing sounds. If you suspect a leak, leave the property and call for help.

Electrical safety

Use things safely:

Don’t misuse electrical items or use them for something they weren’t meant for. Misusing them can be dangerous for everyone in your home.

Say no to DIY electrical work:

Don’t attempt electrical repairs yourself. Report any faults promptly to your landlord. Tampering with electrical equipment can lead to accidents.

Regular appliance check-up:

Regularly inspect electrical appliances for signs of damage. Don’t ignore damage to switches, sockets, or appliances. Getting them fixed or replaced will make them safe again.

Childproofing electrical outlets:

If you have little ones, use childproof covers on electrical outlets to prevent accidents.

Use reputable products:

Buy electrical items from reputable sellers, and only use chargers (especially ones with lithium batteries) that have come with the equipment.

General safety tips

Report repairs promptly:

Report any safety-related repairs immediately to your landlord.

Be aware of your surroundings:

Keep an eye out for potential hazards and report them promptly.

Emergency contacts handy:

Save emergency numbers, including your landlord’s contact, in an easily accessible place.

Remember, a safe home is a happy home. If in doubt, reach out to your landlord or relevant authorities for assistance. Your wellbeing is our priority!

Emergency contacts

Fire, police or ambulance
Call 999

Trivallis
03000 030 888

National Gas Emergency Service
0800 111 999