Fire safety in private housing
Following some recent fire safety incidents within the local area, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service would like to remind everyone that fire safety equipment is available for your protection and should be used as intended.
- If you are living off campus in a building with fire doors please ensure that these are always closed and not propped open, even when cooking. They are installed to prevent the spread of fire and smoke in the case of emergency and could save your life.
- Every property should have smoke alarms installed and these should remain uncovered. If you rent privately and don’t have working smoke alarms, please contact your landlord who is legally responsible for providing working smoke detection.
- Fire extinguishers and fire blankets, if present, should only be used in case of emergency and should not moved from their allocated position. They are strategically placed in accordance with the building risk assessment to enable a safe evacuation of the building if needed.
- In the event of a fire/smoke alarm sounding, leave the building by the nearest safe exit, call 999 and ask for the fire service. Please do not attempt to tackle a fire by yourself or delay your evacuation by collecting personal items.
View our accessible fire safety escape plan guidance.
Reflective objects
Reflective objects catching sunlight, like mirrors, snow globes and glass ornaments can be a cause of fire. Here’s how you can help prevent fires:
- Store reflective items, like magnifying glasses and glass ornaments, away from windows, especially south-facing ones, or cover them when not in use.
- Be extra cautious in autumn and winter when the sun is lower.
- Close internal doors when you leave home or at bedtime.
- Don’t place objects that can focus sunlight near windows or next to flammable materials.
January 13, 2023
