Fire kills. It takes just one mistake to start a fire and there’s no quick fix once the damage is done.
Fire safety is of the utmost importance to us here at Your Move, so we’re teaming up with the UK government for their Fire Kills initiative to keep you safe in your home.
Remember, in the event of a fire: Get out, stay out, call 999. Do not tackle fires yourself – leave it to the professionals.
When did you last test your smoke alarms?
Can’t think of the last time you tested your smoke alarms? Then you should go test them right now. Even if your smoke alarms are on mains power, testing a smoke alarm doesn’t just test the battery, but also the smoke sensor itself.
If you press the button on your smoke alarm and it does not go off, you must replace the battery or replace the smoke alarm altogether. Home fires are a serious hazard, and you need to be alerted to a fire as soon as possible.
You should always test your smoke alarms at least once a month, something you can integrate into your usual household routine. That way you can be rest assured that they will trigger in the event of a fire.
Dust build-up affects your smoke alarms. Get into a habit of vacuuming them every six months to remove dust.
You should know how old your smoke alarms are too, as they need to be replaced every 10 years. When moving into a new home, always ask the landlord or seller about the age and condition of the smoke alarms.
What am I risking by not having smoke alarms?
To say the least, you are risking a lot. Did you know that a home without smoke alarms is 10 times more likely to result in a fatal accident?
Do not delay smoke alarm installation. They are cheap and easy to install. Every day you go without a smoke alarm is another day where a fatal fire accident is 10 times more likely.
When installing smoke alarms you need to consider the following:
- You need at least one smoke alarm on every level of your home
- Include smoke alarms in each bedroom
- Do not put a smoke alarm in a kitchen or bathroom
- You cannot paint over a smoke alarm
There are two types of smoke alarms to consider: Battery powered and mains-powered. Battery powered are cheaper and easier to install but you will need to be sure to change the batteries every year.
Mains-powered smoke alarms will need to be installed by a qualified electrician. They will contain a backup battery in case the mains power goes out.
Some people may find testing and cleaning smoke alarms difficult, especially in homes with high ceilings.
If you have family or neighbours that may experience difficulty doing so, offer to help them with regular smoke alarm testing and cleaning visits.
While you are there, make sure they have a clear path to exit the property in the event of a fire.
If you want to find out more about how to keep our home safe from the dangers of fire, explore the Fire Kills webpage for more details.
Could you afford to replace your belongings in the event of a fire or other damage? Don’t leave it to chance, our trusted partner First2Protect are on hand to explore your coverage options.
Home Insurance services are referred to First2Protect Ltd.
Your Move E-Marketing Executive
