Fire

Even a small fire in your home can lead to substantial damage that could be expensive to repair and leave you unable to stay in your property for a number of weeks.

Smoke alarms

A smoke alarm is the easiest and quickest way to alert everyone at home to the danger of fire. They are cheap, easy to get hold of and simple to fit. London Fire Brigade advises that you place at least one device fitted on the ceiling of every floor in your home. 

As well as fitting smoke alarms in your home, they should also be tested regularly. Try to press the test button once a week.

If the alarm chirps, warning that the battery is low, replace the entire smoke alarm right away. Smoke alarms with any other type of battery need a new battery at least once a year. 

If you live in a private rented property, your landlord is legally required to provide you with smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

Visit London Fire Brigade's website for more information on smoke alarms.

Home fire safety checker

You can use the London Fire Brigade's home fire safety checker to check if your home is safe. The tool allows you to carry out a thorough check in only a few minutes.

After completing the check you will be provided with specific fire safety advice for your family and home.

Further advice

HM Government and London Fire Brigade provide detailed fire safety advice:

• Fire safety in the home
• Fire safety in shared or rented accommodation
• Fire safety outdoors
• Fire safety on boats
• Fire safety on London Fire Brigade's website
• The Government's Fire Kills Campaign