Fire safety at home
A fire at home can put you and your loved ones at serious risk, including from smoke inhalation.
Common causes of house fires include cooking accidents, candles, smoking and faulty electrics. Reducing or avoiding activities like vaping or burning candles can lower fire risk and improve air quality. Follow the guidance below to help protect your home and family from fire.
Install smoke alarms and test them at least once a month. If you’re unsure which alarm to use or can’t fit one yourself, you may be able to get a Safe and Well check from West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue.
Plan an escape route and make sure everyone knows how to get out. Keep door and window keys somewhere easy to find.
Fit a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm in any room with a fuel‑burning appliance like as a boiler or fireplace.
To prevent fires:
- Don’t use appliances like washing machines, tumble dryers or dishwashers overnight. Although it may save money, it increases fire risk, especially if a fault happens while you are asleep. Safer ways to save energy include switching appliances off at the plug instead of leaving them on standby.
Visit The Energy Saving Trust for top tips or see our energy advice page.
- Always switch off cookers and hobs after use
- Turn saucepan handles inward when cooking
- Keep flammable items away from heat sources, for example, keep heaters away from curtains and furniture, and keep clothing, tea towels and cloths away from the cooker
- Do not overload plug sockets and follow charging instructions for electrical items
- Smoke or vape outside where possible. Never smoke in bed or when drowsy or under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medication. Make sure all smoking materials are fully put out before disposal
- Quitting smoking is the best way to reduce risk.
The Living Well Stop Smoking Service offers free support, advice and options to help you quit.
- Don’t put lithium batteries in your household bin.
Please take them to a recycling centre, supermarket or shop that offers battery recycling.
- If you have an e-bike or e-scooter, follow the manufacturer’s charging instructions.
Find safety guidance from Electrical Safety First to help keep you and others safe.
Steps to reduce the impact of a fire:
- Close internal doors at night to help stop fire spreading.
- Keep escape routes clear, learn more on our Creating Calming Spaces section about managing clutter. See our Creating Calming Spaces section
West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue
This website offers more information on keeping your home safe.
More info for tenants
If you rent your home, your landlord must provide enough smoke alarms and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms. In shared housing, such as converted flats, bedsits or hostels, there should also be extra fire safety equipment.
More info for landlords
Find out about your responsibilities if you are a landlord