Fire Safety tips

Warning symbol icon

Please let us know if you would need help to evacuate in the event of a fire:

Please note: if you would need help to evacuate in the event of a fire, you must tell us. This could be because of a disability, a sensory impairment or if you have reduced mobility.

If you feel that you would need assistance, please phone us on 01204 328000 or email us at buildingsafety@boltonathome.org.uk.

Fire safety

Follow these steps to help prevent the risk of fire in your home.

  • Keep matches away from children.
  • Avoid using chip pans and never leave them unattended.
  • Do not dry clothes around fires, heaters, or cookers.
  • Do not block vents or grills on heaters.
  • Close doors at night.
  • Do not prop Fire Doors open (you can tap here for more information from us on Fire Doors, including how to check that they are safe).
  • Check smoke detectors are working regularly.
  • Do not overload plug sockets.
  • Unplug electrical appliances when not in use.
  • Do not block exits or escape routes.
  • Extinguish cigarettes properly and empty ash trays regularly.
  • Do not keep inflammable or explosive substances in your home.
  • Any work that affects your gas supply or appliances must be carried out by a qualified engineer registered with Gas Safe (you can check whether an engineer is registered with Gas Safe by tapping here - this link opens in a new tab).

The importance of smoke detectors

testing your smoke alarm

Smoke detectors save lives, so regularly check then and report any problems immediately.

The Fire Service recommends that you test your alarm weekly and replace the batteries once a year.

You should also clean smoke detectors regularly. Vacuuming them is a good way to do it.

Please remember that you are responsible for replacing the batteries.

For further advice on fire safety, contact your local fire station or visit www.manchesterfire.gov.uk (link opens in a new tab).

More fire safety advice from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS)

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) logo

The Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) website also has lots of advice on keeping you and your family safe from the risks of fire.

To see Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service's (GMFRS') full collection of fire safety advice on a range of topics (and in other languages), please tap here (link opens in a new tab).

You can use that link to access GMFRS' fire safety advice for both houses and flats, with expert advice on things like:

  • smoke and heat alarms,
  • cooking and kitchen safety,
  • smoking at home,
  • electricals,
  • electric bikes and scooters,
  • heating and candles,
  • balcony safety,
  • evacuation,
  • Fire Doors,
  • and more.

Which health and safety topic would you like to learn more about?