Fire safety in the home - Carers Module
If you care for a family member, or are a social worker or support worker, we are here to support you. On this page you will find specialist advice to help you keep safe.
Why is it important to us?
A third of the people that die in fires every year are looked after by a carer, whether that is a family member, friend or a professional carer. We believe that by working together, we can reduce fire deaths and injuries of vulnerable people.
Every page has a "print-friendly version" link so the page can be easily printed off if needed.
Complete an online home safety check for yourself or someone else
![A laptop with the online home fire safety check page open](/sites/default/files/styles/highlight_panel_mobile/public/2023-01/online-home-fire-safety-check.jpg?h=6667f314&itok=f3NSJfbM)
Worried about someone you care for?
Book a home safety visit with us. We can provide bespoke advice based on the person you care for's home and individual needs during a home fire safety visit.
They can be arranged 24/7, and we will fit free smoke alarms if the person you care for needs them. Specialist alarms can also be provided and fitted for anyone with sensory impairment.
![A home fire safety office sits on sofa in living room, offering safety advice](/sites/default/files/styles/large_vertical/public/2022-10/52096143886_6bb6de377c_k_2.jpg?itok=n2xDVF0t)
General fire safety guidance
All risk assessments of premises or patients must consider the risks posed by fire. We advise that:
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Risk assessments must consider the individual’s environment, behaviours and the risk they pose to others, not just themselves
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When caring for householders with limited mobility, consider the provision of inter-linked smoke alarms connected into a tele-care, carecall or life-line type system
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The difference between a hospital, residential care setting and a domestic household must be considered
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If there is heightened risk from fire, make a referral to us for a home fire safety visit as these provide bespoke advice and support to reduce risk and improve fire safety awareness in the home
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Discourage smoking in, or on any bed. If an individual is insistent on smoking they should smoke away from their bed and mattress and only when a capable person is with them to offer immediate assistance if required
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Fire retardant covers, bedding or clothing for at-risk smokers must always be considered, particularly if they are confined by immobility. This is the responsibility of any agency owing a duty of care for the health, safety and wellbeing of someone who may be likely to be at heightened risk. Provide enough protective bedding to allow items to be washed
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Keep all ignition sources away from bedding and dynamic air flow mattresses and don’t use them with electric blankets
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Don’t burn candles in the room of a person at heightened risk from fire
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Don’t overload plug sockets and ensure electrical items are maintained, switched off and unplugged when not in use.