Home Fire Safety

Planning is everything when it comes to home fire safety. Essex Fire and Rescue recommends that every household prepare and practise a Home Escape Plan.

Have a Home Escape Plan

Start with a Home Escape Plan to ensure your family is prepared.

Essex Fire and Rescue can help create your Home Escape Plan and will even assist with your family fire drills.

Practice makes perfect

After creating your Home Escape Plan, ensure everyone in the home knows what to do in the event of a fire. For families with young children, conduct regular fire drills to ensure everyone knows how to get out safely, where to meet, and how to recognize the sound of a smoke alarm.

Get out and stay out

As part of your home escape plan, make sure everyone knows to get out and stay out. In case of fire, don't try to save possessions. Go directly to your meeting place.

Check your chimney

Check your chimney regularly for signs of corrosion or deterioration. Have your chimney cleaned and inspected at least once a year.

Candle safety

Candles may look pretty but they can easily ignite anything nearby. Follow these rules to avoid candles fires:

• Never leave a child or a pet alone in a room with a burning candle
• Keep matches and lighters out of children's reach
• Blow out candles when you leave the room or go to bed
• Avoid using candles in the bedroom
• Consider using flameless candles in your home