We can all take precautions to minimise the risk of fire...

OFFICE

In the event of a fire everyone should evacuate to a place of safety.

Door fastenings on exit routes and final exits must be easy to open.

All fire-resisting structures should be maintained i.e. staircases, doors.

All self-closing mechanisms on fire-resisting doors should be working correctly.

All exit routes and exits should be adequately signed, illuminated and unobstructed.

Keep escape routes clear.

Ensure an emergency/evacuation plan is in place and that you carry out regular fire drills.

Make sure that all the premises' doors and windows are securely locked at the end of each day's work.

Identify people at risk, such as lone workers or workers in remote areas or workers unable to react quickly.

Visitors or members of the public likely to be unfamiliar with escape routes.

Implement a no smoking policy.

Store any flammables and combustible material securely.

Dispose of waste materials promptly and safely.

Check electrical installations and equipment are working correctly and free from damage.

Ensure all fire safety systems are working.

Are there sufficient extinguishers and hose reels and have they been tested/serviced and can they be easily seen?

HOME

Working smoke alarms save lives and should be fitted on every floor of your home and tested weekly.

Make a fire escape plan. Choose the best escape route and an alternative. Keep escape routes clear.

Tell everyone where the door and window keys are, and make them readily available.

Rehearse your plan, while you can.

Extinguish smoking materials and candles properly.

Switch off and unplug all electrical equipment not designed to be left on overnight.

Close all doors that open on to your escape route, except a door to a room where someone is sleeping.

Keep keys to doors and windows easily accessible.

Do not leave cooking unattended. n Keep your cooker clean, especially the grill pan.

Keep combustibles away from the cooker.

Never leave lit cigarettes or pipes unattended.

Do not smoke where you may fall asleep.

Dispose of safely.