10 top tips for preventing a fire

1. Take care in the kitchen

The most common cause of fires in a domestic setting is oil or grease catching fire in a pan. Make sure you always turn off the hob before you leave the kitchen. If the oil or grease in your pan does catch fire, cover the flames with a lid to put them out. Never use water to put out an oil or grease fire!

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2. Never leave candles unattended

An unattended candle can cause a fire. Use sturdy candle holders and place them on a non-flammable surface. Blow out all candles before leaving the room.

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3. Avoid short circuits

Faulty electrical appliances are the third most common cause of fires at home. Heaters, lamps and irons are just some of the appliances that can cause a short circuit and fire. If you smell burning, switch off and unplug the appliance immediately.

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4. Do not leave anything on the hob

You should never leave flammable objects on the hob. There’s a risk of the hob being turned on accidentally and a fire quickly breaking out.

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5. Be careful if you smoke

When you’ve finished with a cigarette, make sure it’s completely out. Use a non-flammable ashtray. Do not empty your ashtray into your waste paper bin! It is extremely dangerous to smoke in bed. Sadly, it is not uncommon for fires to be caused this way and for people to be suffocated by the smoke.

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6. Install a fire extinguisher

Most fires can be kept under control if they are dealt with quickly. The first few minutes are absolutely crucial. Make sure you know how to use your fire extinguisher. You also need to be aware of the type of fire it is designed to put out.

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7. Install fire detectors

Various types of fire detectors are available for domestic use. Speak to a specialist who can recommend the best solution in your specific situation. Certas can put you in touch with an accredited installer near you.

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8. Responding to a fire: Raise the alarm

Call the fire brigade on 118. Give them your name, address and details about the fire (including where it is and what type of fire it is). Follow the instructions given to you by the fire brigade over the phone. Keep anyone who is in danger informed.

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9. Responding to a fire: Help others

Help people and animals to safety. Close doors and windows (to stop the fire from spreading). Leave the building via the emergency exits. Do not use the lift.

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10. Responding to a fire: Fight the fire

Attempt to put out the fire using the means available to you (e.g. a fire extinguisher). If oil or grease has caught fire in a pan, cover it with a lid. If an electrical appliance or device is on fire, quickly disconnect it from the power. When the fire brigade arrives, tell them everything you know about the fire.