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When you are thinking about moving into shared or rented accommodation,
fire safety may not be a priority. However there can be lethal dangers
present.
• All electrical wiring should be safe.
• There should be a basic fire warning system.
• The escape route should be free from obstacles and materials
that burn easily.
• Means of escape and fire precautions should be in good repair.
• You should be able to open exit doors without a key.
• There should be fire extinguishers and fire blankets in shared
kitchens.
• Furniture and furnishings should be fire resistant and in
good repair
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Has your landlord arranged an Electrical Installation safety check
lately? Is there an annual visual check of socket outlets, switches
and lampholders etc.?
Look for danger signs:
• Hot plugs and sockets, fuses that blow for no reason, flickering
lights, scorch marks on plugs or sockets, bare wiring.
• Make sure sockets are not overloaded. One socket - one plug.
Unwind extension leads fully.
• Turn off as many electrical appliances as you can before
you go to sleep and close doors.
• Check your landlord has a maintenance programme for gas heaters
and appliances. Chimneys and flues should be cleaned regularly.
Alarm systems:
• Make sure you can hear the alarm.
• Smoke detectors should be connected to the mains with a battery
back-up in case of power failure.
• Only activate the alarm system in an emergency.
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