Fire Safety Tips for the Winter

Portable heaters can provide extra warmth, but they also pose a fire risk if not used correctly. Always keep heaters away from curtains, furniture, and other flammable materials, and position them against a wall if possible. Never use them to dry clothes, and always unplug electric heaters when you’re not using them or before going to bed.

Electric blankets provide extra warmth during winter, but it’s important to use them safely. Never using hot water bottles in the same bed as an electric blanket, even if the blanket is turned off. Always unplug the blanket before getting into bed, unless it is specifically designed for safe overnight use with a thermostat. 

Store your electric blanket flat or loosely folded to protect the wiring, and regularly inspect it for signs of wear and tear. If your blanket is over 10 years old, think about replacing it, and steer clear of purchasing second-hand options.

To learn more about electrical safety responsibilities visit, here.

Power cuts can be common during winter storms, so keep a battery-operated light or torch handy. If you use candles, always place them in sturdy holders away from flammable materials, like curtains, and never leave them unattended. Some of our specialised housing schemes may restrict the use of candles for safety reasons, so be sure to check the rules for your property. Make sure you extinguish candles completely before leaving the room or going to bed.

It’s also a good idea to keep your mobile phone charged, so you can make emergency calls if needed.

Your internal doors play an essential role in fire safety within your home. They can help protect you from the spread of smoke and fire. By keeping doors closed, you not only enhance fire safety but also improve insulation, keeping warm air in and cold draughts out.

Remember: never wedge doors open.

If you live in a building with communal areas, your flat front door and the communal doors in the building are fire doors. These doors are essential for stopping the spread of fire and smoke. Do not disable or remove a closing device from your flat door or any communal doors, as this compromises their ability to function in an emergency. Please report any required repairs to us as soon as possible.

You must not place screws in your front door to hang wreaths or decorations, as this could damage the door. If decorations are permitted, use self-adhesive strips that can be removed without causing damage.

As your landlord, we carry out routine compliance safety servicing and maintenance throughout the year, including gas and electrical safety checks within your home. We also engage specialist contractors to complete additional fire safety inspections and servicing in buildings with communal areas. This includes fire risk assessments, routine testing of fire alarm panels, and other firefighting equipment.

In addition, communal areas must remain clear of any obstructions, as these can pose serious fire risks. We will be conducting inspections of all properties this year and will remove any items found within communal areas or blocking designated fire exits. Keeping these areas sterile is essential for fire safety. Items that should not be left in communal spaces include:  

•    Buggies  
•    Bikes  
•    Paintings  
•    Shoes or clothing  
•    Plants  
•    Doormats
  
We also ask that any bamboo fencing or combustible items be removed from balconies.

Please note that the above items, as well as any other personal belongings, should not be left in communal areas. Communal spaces should always be kept clear to ensure the safety of all residents.

Items found in communal areas will be removed. If the items are deemed valuable, they will be taken to a storage facility for collection. Any rubbish or waste will be disposed of.

It’s important that we work together on fire safety. You can read more about our fire safety inspections here.