last updated 29 July 04
by 4ecotips.com

Whilst 81% of households now have fire alarms, a leading specialist insurer is warning that only a fraction of homes have an adequate fire strategy in place. Hiscox, an insurer for homes with £50,000 contents or more, says that the majority of the homes it surveys for security and safety measures do not have copies of valuable financial documents stored away from the home, nor do they keep valuables in fire-proof safety deposit boxes.

In addition, the majority of homes do not have a clear strategy for what to do should their home catch fire. Hiscox advises all homeowners to think carefully about their route of escape should their fire or smoke alarms go off.

Additionally, anyone living in a remote area should know their Ordnance Survey map grid reference to give the emergency services as much assistance as possible in finding their property.

Fire prevention and safety tips

Fit a smoke alarm and regularly check it works and replace batteries annually. Where possible, fit an alarm in every room or corridor including attics or cellars. Remove any dust from the alarm using your vacuum cleaner.

Have a fire extinguisher available in case a small fire breaks out - and regularly check the fire extinguisher is in full working order.

Don't leave candles unattended or go to sleep when they are alight - it can take seconds to set fire to furnishings if it falls over.

Keep candles away from draughts and curtains, furniture or anything else that could catch fire.

Make sure candles are firmly secured in a holder and have plenty of space around them, and never try to move a candle when it is alight.

Always use a fireguard on open fires and never rest clothes or papers near a fire. Always ensure a real fire is extinguished before retiring at night.

Fully extinguish cigarettes, cigars and never smoke in bed.

When cooking, keep area clear of combustibles. Keep the handles of pots turned inward. If it catches fire, carefully slide a lid over the pan to smother flames and turn off the burner.

If an electric appliance smokes or smells unusual, unplug it immediately. Replace frayed electrical wires and don't overload extension cords. Don't run cables under rugs and never tamper with the fuse box or use the wrong size fuse.

Have a fire-proof box or safe for vital documents and always take back-up disks from your computer and store them under a separate roof.

Note the most valuable and important items in your home. The fire brigade may have time to rescue some valuables and it is important to tell them quickly where and what they are.

Contact your local fire brigade who will offer you advice about this and possibly a free consultation. see hiscox