Fire safety at home

It is important to be aware of potential fire risks. They could be different depending on whether you live in a flat or a house.

Examples of potential fire risk in flats include:

• storing flammable liquids such as petrol or engine oil in a flat – storage or use of petrol, paraffin or bottled gas in council flats is prohibited by the tenancy agreement
• neighbours altering or tampering with their electrical supply – this is especially true where flats are used to cultivate cannabis, as this presents a serious fire risk
• evidence of vandalism or arson, such as burn marks or the remains of burnt materials – these are signs of arson, which is a major cause of fires in the UK
• stairs and communal corridors blocked by rubbish, bikes, plants and furniture, which can stop people escaping in the event of a fire

Examples of potential fire risk in a house include:

• bonfires and barbeques – you should always be careful and follow supplier's instructions for the use of barbeques and any fire lighters
• storage of petrol and propane gas cylinders in houses, gardens or outbuildings – storage of petrol or other motor fuels in council property is prohibited by tenancy agreements
• neighbours hoarding things, such as old boxes, newspapers, magazines or old furniture either in their home, their garden or outbuildings