Evacuation Procedure

Check individuals can hear the smoke alarm. People with hearing impairment will require a specialist smoke alarm device.

Smoke kills more people than flames do. Explain that it is essential not to open a door where the fire is. Smoke is toxic and if breathed in, can send a person unconscious and kill them.

Emphasize the importance of evacuating the building immediately the smoke alarm goes off or if smoke is seen coming under a door.

Keeping escape routes clear of all trip hazards is essential, especially if individuals have impaired eyesight. Where there is multiple-occupancy, all individuals have a collective responsibility to keep escape routes clear.

People must not delay in leaving the building. Remind them not to go and collect anything – just leave.

Discuss where it is safe to call the fire brigade from and ensure all occupants know and agree this.

The Fire Brigade take control of the building immediately on arrival at the scene. It is important to emphasize that no one is allowed back into the building until the Fire Brigade have satisfied themselves that it is safe to re-enter. Care and support workers will not be allowed back inside either until the Fire Brigade gives permission.

Fire Prevention

Most fires start in kitchens. Emphasize the importance of never leaving a grill pan or frying pan unattended.

Check around the house with the occupants for any damaged plugs, sockets, electrical wiring or electrical appliances. Emphasize the importance of reporting anything that is accidentally damaged.

Safe Practice Issues

• Drying clothes – never near heaters
• Position of furnishings. Keep away from heaters
• Never leave the iron switched on
• Turning off appliances, especially at night
• Check the torch works by the bed

It is preferable not to use multi-way adapters. Fires can start at the rear of the socket if it is overloaded. Trip circuits and fuses offer little protection.

People often get confused as to how many appliances can be plugged into a multi-way adapter. Check the appliances to see how many amps they use and ensure that the total does not exceed 13amps.

As a general guide, appliances that heat up quickly, e.g. kettle, iron and toasters and, appliances that take large amounts of power, e.g. washing machine, tumble drier, dishwasher will take up to 13amps and should not be included on a multi-way adapter.

If anyone smokes, a policy should be agreed. Smoking is a common cause of house fires and therefore the risks to both themselves and others should be explained. Smoking in bed should be ruled out. The best place to smoke is outside. Emphasize the need to use an ashtray and stub-ends should be properly extinguished.