There are more than 50,000 accidental fires in homes throughout Britain every year - that's nearly 140 a day. The precautions you need to take are simple, inexpensive and they could end up saving your life.

Smoke Alarms

Smoke alarms can give you the few minutes warning that could save your life. They cost from as little as £5 from most DIY stores and are easy to fit. Choose an alarm that meets the British Standard BS5446 Part 1 and carries the Kitemark.

Devon Fire and Rescue Service provide  a FREE home safety check and Smoke Alarm fitting service. Contact them to arrange an appointment.

Escape Routes

Escaping from a fire is always easier if you have a planned escape route and everyone knows what to do.

Talk to everyone in your household, including children, about what to do if there is a fire. Let them know the escape route from each room, where door and window keys are kept and what to do if they see a fire and what to do if they are cut off by fire.

What to do if a fire starts

The main thing to do is: try not to panic.

• if possible close the door to the fire. It will delay the spread of the fire and smoke
• touch the door with the back of your hand before opening it. Don’t open it if the door is warm, this means there is fire on the other side
• get everyone out as quickly as possible. Do not stop to pick up valuables or possessions
• if there is smoke, crawl beneath it as smoke rises and the air is clearer lower down
• dial 999 and ask for the fire brigade from a neighbour’s phone, mobile or phone box
• Never go back into the house unless a fire officer tells you it is safe

If you are cut off by fire

If you can’t get to the planned escape route or the door is blocked by fire:

• get everyone into the room you have chosen, ideally one with a window that opens and if possible one with a phone
• use towels and sheets to block any gaps around the door. This will slow smoke getting into your room
• open the window and try to attract attention
• if you are in immediate danger and your room is not above the first floor drop bedding or cushions from the window and get out feet first. Lower yourself to the full length of your arms before dropping

More Information

You can contact the if you would like help planning an escape route or need any advice on fire safety in your home or community.

Fire Safety Helpline: 01392 872288 - do not use 999 - this is for emergencies only.

Fire Kills

The Fire Kills fire safety website provides safety information and advice for:

• Parents & Childcarers
• Children
• People renting or sharing accommodation

To view any published Related Documents for this service you will require the appropriate software. To download this software please see our documents help page. All links to documents will open in a new window. To request documents and files in an alternative format please contact us using the contact information provided on this page.