Guest post by www.essentialfiresafety.co.uk

Fire Risk Assessment

There are many potential sources for a fire in the home. Everything from frayed electrical wires to the kitchen stove can ignite surrounding materials. It is very important that the whole family is prepared to react if a fire does start in the home. This means taking steps to prevent fires, having detection devices in place and learning how to use essential fire safety equipment. Even the smallest amount of planning and preparation that involves everyone in the home can help to save lives if a fire does start.

You can use the following government form to assess your homes fire risk: Risk Assessment Form

Things To Look Out For

The source of a fire might not always be visible. Fires that start in the basement, the garage or inside of a cabinet can burn and smolder for a long time without ever being seen. Smoke alarms are one of the most important fire safety devices to keep in the home for this reason. There are a few different types available. The reason they are important is because a smoke alarm can detect particles in the air that are too small for a human to notice. The early detection of a fire can give a family the extra seconds or minutes that are needed in order to get out of the home safely. Smoke alarms should have batteries replaced at least twice a year.

Have a Plan

Reviewing a plan for the moment when a fire occurs involves actually practicing that plan with everyone who will be involved. A fire drill is an important part of fire safety for a few reasons. It allows everyone to experience exactly how the fire safety plan will work. The drill can reveal problems with the plan so that it can be refined. A fire drill that involves an alternate escape route like a fire escape or ladder will train everyone in how to use the device. It will also provide an opportunity to replace or repair parts so that the escape route remains functional and safe. Fire drills should be held regularly and should involve everyone in the house.

Fire Safety Equipment

Fire safety equipment is essential in any home. A fire extinguisher can quickly stop a small fire preventing it from growing out of control. Emergency ladders allow someone on the second or third floor to get out of the home safely through a window. Each piece of safety equipment should be properly maintained so that it is always in good working order. This means inspecting fire extinguishers and having them recharged as needed.

Preventative Steps

One of the most effective ways to remain safe is to prevent a fire from starting in the first place. Preventative steps include throwing away frayed wires, following all safety instructions for space heaters and disposing of any cinders or ashes properly in a covered metal container outdoors. The outlets in a home should never be overloaded with multiple surge protectors or extension cords. Sprinklers in the home need to be inspected at least once a year to make sure that they are still functional. Taking some small preventative measures and paying attention to dangerous appliances can create a home where the chance of a fire is dramatically reduced.