Fire safety in the home

Every home contains potential sources of fire so it makes sense to be fire aware.

B&Q have a comprehensive fire safety range to protect your home and family. Learn more about protecting your family and home with Smoke and heat alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and extinguishers and ladders.

10 rules for fire safety

• Teach your family all the dangers of fire, and practice your fire escape plan thoroughly.
• Fit a smoke alarm on each level of your home. Keep them free from dust, test the batteries regularly, and always replace dead batteries.
• Be prepared: install an all-purpose fire extinguisher in a prominent position, and a fire blanket close to (but not over) the hob.
• Unless a fire is very small and can be put out with a domestic fire extinguisher, do not tackle it yourself.
• Don't leave the TV or other electrical appliances on standby as this could cause a fire. Always switch off and unplug when not in use.
• Never leave a chip-pan unattended. If a chip-pan fire starts, contain it by turning off the heat source then covering the pan with a damp cloth or fire blanket. Leave it there for at least 30 minutes while the heat subsides.
• Keep matches, lighters and candles out of sight and out of the reach of children.
• Don't overload electrical sockets. Remember one plug for one socket.
• Never leave lit candles in rooms when nobody is inside or where children are alone. Ensure candles are in secure holders on a surface that does not burn and are away from any flammable materials.
• In the event of a fire, get everyone out, shutting all doors behind you and call the fire brigade.