When the weather gets warmer, many of us enjoy spending more time outdoors, having barbecues, opening windows and using fans to keep cool. However, hot weather can also increase the risk of fires in and around your home.
A few simple precautions can help keep you, your family and your neighbours safe during periods of very warm weather.
Why are fires more likely during a heatwave?
Hot and dry conditions can make it easier for fires to start and spread.
Common risks during warmer weather include:
- Overloaded plug sockets and extension leads.
- Faulty fans and cooling equipment.
- Barbecues placed too close to homes, fences or sheds.
- Dry grass catching fire from disposable barbecues or discarded cigarettes.
- Batteries overheating, including those used in e-bikes and e-scooters.
Being aware of these risks can help prevent accidents.
Keep your home safe
Avoid overloading sockets
Many households use extra electrical items during hot weather, such as fans.
To reduce the risk of an electrical fire:
- Avoid plugging several high-powered appliances into one extension lead.
- Check plugs, sockets and cables for signs of damage.
- Switch off and unplug appliances when they are not being used.
- Avoid leaving fans running while you are asleep or out of the home.
Test your smoke alarms
Smoke alarms provide an early warning if a fire starts.
Please remember to:
- Test your smoke alarm regularly.
- Report any faulty alarms immediately.
Barbecue safety
Barbecues are a great way to enjoy the summer, but they can be dangerous if not used carefully.
If you are having a barbecue:
- Keep it well away from buildings, fences, sheds and dry grass.
- Never leave it unattended.
- Keep children and pets away from hot surfaces.
- Make sure coals and ashes are fully extinguished before disposal.
- Avoid using disposable barbecues on grassed areas.
Even a small spark can quickly spread during a period of hot, dry weather.
Battery safety
Many everyday items contain rechargeable lithium batteries, including:
- E-bikes and e-scooters.
- Mobile phones and tablets.
- Laptops.
- Power tools.
- Vapes.
To stay safe:
- Do not charge batteries in direct sunlight.
- Avoid charging batteries overnight.
- Always use the correct charger.
- Stop using batteries that appear damaged, swollen or overheating.
- Store batteries in a cool, dry place.
Be a good neighbour
Fire safety is everyone’s responsibility.
You can help protect your community by:
- Disposing of cigarettes safely.
- Keeping communal areas clear of rubbish and stored items.
- Reporting fire safety concerns promptly.
- Taking care when using outdoor cooking equipment.
- Following any fire safety guidance provided.
Working together to stay safe
By taking a few simple precautions during hot weather, we can all help reduce the risk of fire and keep our homes and communities safe.
If you have any concerns about fire safety in your home or communal areas, please contact Teign Housing for advice and support on 01626 322722 option 2, or customerhub@teignhousing.co.uk