We work closely with the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service to help prevent accidents at home caused by fire.
Your home will have a smoke alarm, which may be mains or battery operated. You are responsible for ensuring that the batteries work and are not removed if this is how your smoke alarm operates.
In the UK 90 people die each year because the battery in their smoke alarm was flat. You should not interfere with the operation of your smoke alarm.
You can test your alarm by pressing the large button in the centre, or you may have switches located on the wall that have a test button.
To comply with fire regulations, common areas (like entrances to a block of flats) must always be kept clear ensuring escape routes are not blocked, and there are no fire hazards.
We carry out monthly checks to make sure communal areas are kept clean and clear. If items are found in common areas, we will give the owner the opportunity to remove them first, but we reserve the right to dispose of any items not removed that cause obstruction. If we do dispose of any item(s), you may be charged for the cost or it could increase your service charges.
Don’t leave cooking unattended, and avoid leaving children alone in the kitchen when you have pans on the hob.
Be especially careful when cooking with oil. Don’t overfill chip pans and never throw water on a chip pan fire. Ideally, use oven chips instead.
Make sure cigarettes are put out properly, do not smoke in bed, and use a suitable ashtray.
Don’t overload electrical sockets.
Turn off appliances when not in use, and don’t leave them on standby.
Keep matches and lighters out of reach and sight of children.
Make sure candles are secured in a proper holder, and away from materials that could catch fire, like curtains. Children must never be left alone with lit candles.
Do not leave tumble dryers on when you are not at home, and ensure you regularly remove the build-up of lint because it can be a source of ignition.
Always use spark devices, because they are safer than matches or lighters to light gas cookers.
Do not attempt to carry out any alterations to your home’s electrical system. This is not only illegal, but also a fire risk.
Do not carry out alterations to your home without seeking permission from us. Otherwise, you might inadvertently remove a fire-rated wall or door.
Allow us to access your heating system annually, and all other services you may have in your home. This is a legal requirement and will help to reduce the risk of fire.
Do not store unnecessary flammable materials or liquids in your home, or in communal areas including gardens.
Keep calm and act quickly, getting everyone out of the building as soon as possible.
Do not try to investigate the situation yourself.
If you encounter smoke, keep your body down low where the air is cleaner.
Before opening a door, check if the door handle is warm. If it is, don’t open it, because there is probably a fire on the other side.
Call 999 as soon as you are clear and safe.
Plan an emergency escape route, and make sure everyone in your household knows it.
Make sure all exits are kept clear.
Keep door and window keys where everyone in the household can find them.
Never tackle fires yourself, leave it to the professionals.
If you live in a flat with a communal area, you will be provided with an evacuation plan and should follow the plan provided to you. Below is some general advice:
Always leave your flat if it is affected by smoke or heat, or if told to by the Fire and Rescue Service.
Your stairway is designed to be your fire exit.
Always use the staircase to get to ground level if leaving the building, not a lift.
Do not leave your belongings or rubbish in corridors or near the staircase. This could affect you and your neighbours if there is a fire.
If you are in a corridor or stairway and you notice a fire, leave the building immediately and, if safe to do so, alert other residents in the immediate vicinity on your way out (knock on their doors). When outside contact the Fire and Rescue Service via 999.
Do not put yourself at risk. Do not return to your flat until you have been told it is safe to do so.