Fire Safety in Your Rental Home

Fire safety is something we can all easily overlook, but a few simple checks around your home can make a big difference.

From testing your alarms to keeping exit routes clear, here are some practical steps you can take to help keep your home and household safe.

Test Your Alarms Every Month

Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms can only protect you when they are working properly.

Test every alarm inside your home at least once a month by pressing and holding the test button until it sounds.

Please do not remove the batteries, disconnect, cover or tamper with any alarm.

If an alarm does not sound when tested, is damaged, has been removed or keeps chirping, let us know as soon as possible. We can then investigate and arrange any necessary repairs or replacements.

Help Prevent Fires Around the Home

Many household fires can be prevented by taking a little extra care.

• Never leave cooking unattended.
• Keep tea towels, packaging and other flammable items away from the hob.
• Never leave lit candles unattended.
• Keep heaters away from curtains, furniture and clothing.
• Avoid overloading plug sockets or extension leads.
• Replace damaged cables, plugs and electrical items.
• Make sure appliances are switched off when you have finished using them.

These small habits can help reduce the risk of a fire starting in your home.

Keep Your Escape Routes Clear

Hallways, staircases, doorways and other exit routes should always be kept clear.

Make sure everyone in your household knows the quickest and safest way to leave the property in an emergency. It is also worth thinking about a second route in case your usual exit is blocked.

If you live in a flat or apartment building, please do not test or interfere with alarms or fire-safety equipment in communal areas. Report any concerns about communal equipment to us instead.

Charging E-bikes and E-scooters Safely

E-bike and e-scooter batteries can become a serious fire risk if they are damaged or charged incorrectly.

If you keep or charge one at your property:

• Never leave it charging while you are asleep or away from home.
• Do not charge or store it in a hallway, by the front door or anywhere that could block your escape.
• Only use the correct manufacturer-approved battery and charger.
• Never cover the charger or battery while it is charging.
• Unplug the charger once the battery is fully charged.
• Stop using the battery if it becomes unusually hot, swollen or damaged, or starts making unusual noises or producing a strange smell or smoke.

You can find more advice in the government’s e-bike and e-scooter safety guidance.

Know What to Do in an Emergency

If a fire starts, get out of the property as quickly and safely as possible.

Do not stop to collect belongings and never go back inside.

Once you are safely outside, stay out and call 999.

Report Any Problems to Us

Please contact Elite Property as soon as possible if an alarm is faulty, damaged, missing or repeatedly sounding.

You can contact us by emailing info@eliteproperty.co or calling 024 7665 2200.

For more practical advice, you can also visit the government’s Fire Kills campaign or complete a free online home fire safety check.

Taking a few minutes to check your home today could help keep you, your household and your neighbours safe.