How to find fire alarms and extinguishers for your home
Fire is a major hazard that can strike even the most careful homes so you should always make sure that you’re prepared should the worst happen. Fire alarms save lives and all homes should have them installed.
You’ll find everything you need to know about buying and installing fire safety measures available online so there’s no excuse for not protecting your home. Start searching for the help and advice that could create a safer environment for you and your loved ones.
Fire and smoke alarms for your home
There are lots of things you can do to improve the fire safety levels in your home, such as having your wiring regularly checked by a trained electrician and ensuring you switch off electrical appliances when they aren’t in use. However, you’ll never be able to safeguard against fire completely and that’s what makes fire alarms and extinguishers so essential. Spend some time on the government’s Fire Kills campaign for a sobering look at the dangers of leaving your home unprotected.
If you’re looking to replace existing alarms or buy additional ones for your property, the Fire Service site is a great place to start. There, you’ll find some great information about the different types of smoke and fire alarms available. The site also gives some guidance as to the number of alarms your home may need. For example, you should always have a separate alarm for each floor and you shouldn’t install an alarm in a kitchen or bathroom, as the steam and cooking fumes are likely to set it off.
When you’re ready to buy new alarms, be certain to do it from a reputable vendor such as Safelincs. Any new alarm you install should carry the Kite Mark and should adhere to the standards set by the British Standards Institution. For help and advice about choosing or installing your alarm, get in touch with your local Fire and Rescue Service. Once fitted, you should be sure to test your alarm at least once a week and change the batteries annually.
Installing fire extinguishers
Extinguishers can be very useful should a fire break out in your home, but you should never try to tackle a large blaze or put yourself in danger. There are several basic types of extinguishers, including water, foam, dry powder and carbon dioxide. Some are more suitable for home use than other and the Fire and Safety Centre has a chart that can help you work out which type of extinguisher is most appropriate for your circumstances.
You’ll find another great resource from The Independent, which has created a guide to fire extinguishers that could help save your life. There are a few key places in the home where a fire extinguisher can be most useful, such as the kitchen and the garage. A fire blanket or wet chemical extinguisher can be a good choice for food preparation areas while a dry powder device will be a better help should a fire start in your garage or tool shed.
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