BE FIRE READY
Welcome to our ‘Be Fire Ready’ page, your exclusive resource for expert guidance and advice on domestic fire safety and restoration. Tailored to empower both individuals and communities, this page equips you with the knowledge and tools needed to proactively prevent fires and navigate the aftermath effectively. Delve into our curated insights, addressing our most frequently asked questions on domestic fires.
In line with guidance from the UK Government, it's recommended to test your smoke alarms at least once a month in a domestic property or weekly if you have a commercial property. For more information on the types of smoke alarms and how many you need, please refer to our comprehensive guide ‘Fire Safety 101’.
In the event of a fire, your personal safety should always be your top priority. If possible, use a heavy-duty material to smother the fire and close doors to prevent its spread. If you are in immediate danger, evacuate the premises and either shout for assistance or call 999. For a comprehensive outline of what to do before, during, and after a house fire, consult our emergency guide on ‘Surviving a House Fire’.
The spread of fire can often leave behind hazardous residues like soot, smoke, VOCs, and the risk of mould growth if water was used to extinguish the fire. These substances can cause respiratory problems and irritation, emphasising the importance of entrusting restoration to professionals who can manage the process safely with the necessary precautions.
Statistics from the National Fire Chiefs Council reveal that 44% of domestic fires are attributed to cooking, 10% to smoking materials, 9% to electrical equipment, 8% to heating, and 5% to deliberate ignition. To safeguard your home and family, we strongly recommend referring to our comprehensive emergency guide, 'Surviving a House Fire', which provides preventative measures and a contingency plan for fire safety.
When filing a fire insurance claim, it's crucial to first document the damage with photos and notes, and then gather your policy details, certificates, and receipts for valuable items. Our blog, 'How to Reduce Stress in the Event of a Fire or Flood,' advises keeping these documents in an easily accessible folder, along with other tips for a smoother claims process.
In addition to specialised fire insurance, there are typically two types of home insurance to consider for covering fire damage restoration costs. Buildings insurance handles structural repairs and rebuilding expenses, while contents insurance addresses the loss of personal belongings during events like a fire. You will need to understand your policies terms, such as whether you are covered on a ‘new to old basis’, which we cover in our blog ‘Fire And Flood Restoration Advice’.
If your home is rendered uninhabitable by a fire, your home insurance policy can offer support. If insurance doesn't cover it, your local authority and charitable organisations may provide assistance with temporary accommodation and emergency funds. In cases where the fire is localised, you might also consider renting a temporary kitchen or bathroom pod to ensure essential facilities are available.
The time it takes to recover from a house fire depends on a few factors, such as the extent of the damage and the efficiency of your insurance and restoration company. However, the emotional recovery from such a traumatic event often takes significantly longer and may necessitate support from qualified professionals. In our latest blog post, we explore the key things you need to consider following a house fire and shed light on ‘how we can facilitate your properties post-fire recovery’.
Whenever using any heated appliance, you should always consider the recommended safety precautions given by the manufacturer. These include, not leaving the area unattended, routinely testing smoke alarms, and keeping the appliance 3 feet away from any flammable items. For more advice on maintaining a safe and warm home in the colder months, read our blog on ‘Winter fire safety tips’.
Minimising the risk of potential fires involves a range of daily habits and additional precautions. Such measures include never leaving cooking areas or heat sources unattended, conducting regular smoke alarm tests, ensuring flammables are stored away from heat sources, and diligently following safety guidance and manufacturer’s instructions for electrical appliances and power outlets.
To prevent fires when away, turn off all appliances, unplug devices, and eliminate potential heat sources like cooking, candles, heaters, and smoking materials before leaving. Install smoke detectors for early fire detection and check out our blog 'How To Reduce The Risk Of Fire And Flood While You Are Away' for more tips.
During the winter months, heating systems should be well maintained and appliances should be used with care. With the holiday season often brings candles and decorations, so ensure you keep flammable decorations a safe distance from heat sources. For more information, read our blog ‘10 ways to minimise the Christmas fire risk in your home’.
According to statistics from the National Fire Chiefs Council, electrical goods cause 9% of domestic property fires. In our blog ‘Which white goods can be a fire risk’, we delve into which are the worst offenders, and what you can do to minimise the risks.
When addressing smoke damage, prioritise personal safety by wearing appropriate PPE, including long-sleeved tops, trousers, gloves, goggles, a hard hat, and a respiratory mask with a HEPA filter. These measures establish a vital shield against potential exposure to harmful toxins during clean up procedures.
If you find yourself in need of assistance or have any lingering questions, we’d be more than happy to help. Call our national helpline or fill out our form on our Contact Us page.