Fire Safety in Your Home

Keeping you and your neighbours safe

Your safety is our top priority. Fires can start and spread quickly. Here’s how you can help protect yourself, your family, and your community.

What to do in an emergency

If someone is in danger or a serious incident is happening, call 999 straight away.

If you need urgent help from Arhag during office hours, call 020 7424 7370.
For emergencies outside office hours, call 0800 389 8699.

If you smell gas, leave your home immediately. Call the National Gas Emergency Line on 0800 111 999 once you are outside. Do not use light switches or electrical appliances.
 

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Preventing fire in your home

Know your escape route

Everyone in your home should know the quickest way out. Keep exits clear and do not block hallways or stairwells. Ask your Housing Officer if you’re unsure.

Smoke, heat and carbon monoxide alarms

Make sure alarms are working. Test them weekly and contact us if yours is missing or faulty. You can also call the London Fire Brigade on 0800 028 4428 to ask for a free home visit.

If your alarm is beeping, the battery is low. Do not remove the battery unless replacing it.

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Everyday fire safety

In the kitchen

Most house fires start in the kitchen. Always stay close while cooking and switch off appliances when finished. Keep hobs and surfaces clean and free from clutter.

Smoking

Fires caused by cigarettes and smoking materials are particularly dangerous – often happening at night.

  • Never smoke in bed or when feeling drowsy – especially after drinking alcohol or taking medication.
  • Use proper ashtrays and always empty them safely once contents are cold.
  • Do not flick ash or cigarette butts out of windows. This could start a fire on balconies or in lower flats.
  • Keep lighters and matches out of reach of children.
  • Consider quitting. The safest option is to go smoke-free – support is available via the NHS.
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Electric scooters and e-bikes

Lithium-ion batteries, found in e-scooters and e-bikes, can pose a serious fire risk if damaged or improperly charged.

  • Only use the charger that came with your scooter or bike. Avoid cheap replacement chargers.
  • Never charge batteries overnight or while you’re out.
  • Do not block exits or communal areas with scooters or bikes – they must not be stored in corridors, stairwells, or shared entrances.
  • Keep batteries away from flammable materials while charging.
  • Stop using the device if the battery is damaged, swollen, or overheating. Report any damage to the manufacturer.

Heaters, candles, and naked flames

Keep heaters away from bedding, curtains and clothes. Never leave them on overnight or unattended. Use flat, fire-resistant surfaces for candles and incense, away from anything that could catch fire. Consider switching to LED candles.

Preventing electrical fires

Electrical faults are one of the most common causes of house fires. Here’s how to reduce the risk:

  • Don’t overload sockets. Use one plug per socket where possible and avoid daisy-chaining extension leads.
  • Switch off appliances at the wall when not in use, especially overnight.
  • Look out for damaged wires, plugs, or sockets – if you spot burn marks or hear buzzing, unplug the device and report it.
  • Never run cables under carpets or rugs – they can overheat and cause a fire.
  • Only use appliances with a UK CE or UKCA mark.
  • Do not attempt DIY electrical repairs. Always use a qualified electrician – report concerns to ARHAG if it’s a housing issue.

General Fire Safety Reminders

  • Test your smoke alarms weekly. Contact us if they are not working.
  • Keep communal areas clear – no bikes, pushchairs, or personal items in hallways.
  • Know your fire escape route. If you're unsure, ask your Housing Officer for advice.
  • Never tamper with fire doors or prop them open.

Contact us

If you have questions or want to report a fire safety concern, contact us:

Phone: 020 7424 7370

Email: housing@arhag.co.uk

Let’s work together to keep every home safe.