The Derbyshire Fire Brigade offer a FREE home fire safety check, where if required smoke alarms will be fitted FREE of charge. The home fire safety check will give you valuable information on making your home a safer place and advice on how to protect yourself and family if the unthinkable happens.
For more information or to book an appointment please call your nearest area office:
North Area Office 01246 454413
East Area Office 0115 9326832
West Area Office 01298 22274
South Area Office 01332 345440
Alternatively click on the above link to access the website to find more information regarding fire safety & local offices.
Smoke Alarms
Ensure that the alarm is working and tested regularly. This should be done once a week, but in any case in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Most alarms are tested by pushing in an obvious test button for a few seconds until the alarm sounds. When the batteries are running out, the alarm will give an occasional bleep. This will continue until the battery runs out or is replaced. Make sure the right type of battery (normally alkaline) is used as a replacement. Batteries should normally be replaced once per year, except in the case of ten year alarms. Smoke alarms also need hoovering twice a week to keep the sensors free from dust.
A fire strikes when you least expect it, often during the night. It also spreads very rapidly, but the real killer is the smoke. If you are asleep when a fire starts and you don’t have a smoke alarm to wake you, your chance of surviving are zero. Smoke suffocates quickly, and you’ll be dead before the flames reach you.
Smoke alarms are available for people with a hearing impairment which consists of flashing lights and vibrating pads. These require specialist fitting.
Candle Safety
Treat lighted candles as you would any other flame-with care
Keep them away from draughts and anything that can easily catch fire like furniture or curtains.
Don’t let candles fall over! You need to keep candles firmly upright in a proper holder.
Always place candles on a heat-resistant surface. Night lights and tea lights can melt plastic surfaces like TV tops and bath tubs.
Don’t lean across candles! You could set fire to your clothes or hair.
Always leave a least 4 inches (10cm) between two burning candles.
Don’t let anything fall onto hot wax, like matchsticks.
Use a ‘snuffer’ or a spoon to put candles out. It’s safer than blowing them, which can send sparks and hot wax flying.
Keep candles out of reach of children and pets.
For more details regarding smoke alarms, candle safety and many more safety issues please contact your area office or visit the web site above.
