Fire safety reminder for residents living in blocks of flats
As part of our ongoing work to help keep residents safe, we carry out regular fire risk assessments in our blocks of flats and make sure any actions are completed where necessary.
Fire safety is a shared between residents and us as your landlord. Every building is different, so it’s important that you take a few moments to read the fire safety information displayed in your block’s entrance hallway. Please make sure everyone in your household knows what to do in the event of a fire.
With warmer weather approaching, we’re sharing some reminders to help keep you and your neighbours safe. You can find out more on our Fire safety management web page.
Smoke alarms and keeping your home safe
Whether you rent or own your home, it’s important to make sure your alarms are working properly. Please test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms regularly by pressing the button until the alarm sounds.
If you rent your home from us, smoke alarms are fitted on every habitable floor, along with a carbon monoxide alarm in rooms with fuel-burning appliances.
If you think your alarms are missing or not working, please contact us so we can arrange a priority check. You can do this via the My Settle Portal using the ‘report a repair’ option, or by contacting us directly.
Keep balconies safe and clutter-free
- BBQs, fireworks, patio heaters and fire pits must not be used on balconies.
- Please avoid storing gas cylinders, flammable liquids, or other highly flammable items outside.
- Screening made from reed or similar materials should not be used, as it could allow fire to spread quickly up the building.
- Balconies should be kept as clear as possible. Rubbish, toys and other combustible items can increase the risk of fire spreading.
- Please make sure cigarettes are fully extinguished and never thrown over the side of a balcony.
- White goods, including tumble dryers, should not be kept on balconies as they are not designed for outdoor use and could become a fire risk.
Keep shared areas clear
Corridors, stairwells, entrances and lifts must be kept clear at all times as they are essential escape routes in the event of a fire or other emergency. They must also remain accessible for everyone, including people using wheelchairs, buggies or other mobility aids.
Please do not leave bags, deliveries, bins, bicycles, mobility scooters or furniture in communal areas, even for a short time.
For everyone’s safety, please avoid charging mobility scooters or other battery-powered items in shared areas.
Fire doors and flat entrance doors
Fire doors help slow the spread of smoke and fire and protect escape routes.
Your flat entrance door is an an important part of the building’s fire safety system. It helps protect you, your neighbours and the wider block in an emergency.
Please do not wedge fire doors open or make changes to your flat entrance door, including door closers, locks, letter plates or smoke seals. These features help the door meet fire safety standards and keep everyone safe.
Please report any faults – you can do this via the My Settle Portal using the ‘report a repair’ option, or by contacting us directly.
BBQ safety
If you are using a BBQ outdoors, please make sure it is used safely.
Place it on level ground in an open outdoor area, well away from buildings, fences, sheds, trees and anything else that could catch fire. Never use petrol or other flammable liquids to light a BBQ and never leave it unattended while lit or still hot.
Children and pets should always be kept at a safe distance, and please make sure ashes and coals are completely cold before disposing of them.
Avoid using BBQs in windy conditions, as this can increase the risk of fire spreading.
Need support or have concerns?
If you need extra support to leave your home in an emergency, such as a fire, help is available.
You can self-refer for a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEPs), which helps us understand your needs and put suitable arrangements in place.
If you are unsure whether this applies to you or would like to talk to us about the support available, please contact us on 0330 343 0016.
If you have any concerns about the safety of your home or communal areas, please get in contact with us and our teams will be happy to help.
