Fire Safety

Fire Alarms

We have fitted smoke alarms in your home to help detect fires before they become dangerous. Remember to test your smoke alarm at least once a week - we have included a guide on how to do this below. If it is not working, make sure you test the batteries before contacting the Association.

Home Fire Safety Visit

A free home fire safety visit is quick and easy to arrange. It only takes around 20 minutes to carry out – but it could save your life.

You'll get tips and advice on how to keep you safe in your home and avoid a fire breaking out – and what to do if it does. 

A team from Scottish Fire and Rescue Service will pop out at a time which suits you and answer any questions you have about fire safety. Find out more at home fire safety visit.

How do I book a free home fire safety visit?

To book your free visit:

• Speak to your housing officer
• Text ‘FIRE’ to 80800 from your mobile phone
• Call 0800 0731 999.

Smoke alarm testing

Smoke alarms are a key part of a home fire escape plan. When there is a fire, smoke spreads fast. Working smoke alarms give you early warning so you can react quickly.

It is important you make sure you have working smoke alarm(s) in your home. You can stay in control of this by carrying out a regular test, perhaps on the same day each week to make it easy to remember. If you live with others, remember and let them know you are testing the alarm(s) so they don't panic.

How to test your alarm 

If the detector is working, the alarm will sound, along with any other alarms in your property that are linked to it.

To do this press and hold the test button on the smoke detector. It can take a few seconds to begin and you will hear a loud siren from the detector while the button is pressed.

Cleaning your alarm 

Another helpful tip is to clean the detector(s). When you are testing the detector each month, it’s a good idea to use a vacuum cleaner attachment, a cleaning brush, or a soft cloth to clean any dust, dirt, or debris that may have gathered.

Avoid using cleaners on the unit as these may contaminate the sensors. Vacuuming or wiping away dust should be enough. 

Follow these additional tips in mind to keep you and your home fire safe:

• Keep communal stairs, landings and cupboards clear of all belongings.
• Report issues of fly tipping to Glasgow City Council and inform your Housing Officer of any unauthorised storage.
• Do not tamper with, damage or remove fire doors. Report issues with door entry systems and any other communal issues promptly.
• Keep bin stores tidy and take excess rubbish or unwanted household items to the recycling centre or tip.
• Avoid overloading electrical sockets. Always unplug chargers when not in use - always unplug them overnight.
• Close living room and kitchen doors at night. In the event of a fire, this will help to hold back smoke and flames giving you vital time to escape or call for help.

E-Scooters/E-Bikes and Lithium-ion batteries

E-scooters, e-bikes and mobility scooters can be useful tools for many people. The main fire risk is the lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery used to charge these appliances. These types of batteries are found in mobility scooters, mobile phones, powerpacks, laptops, children’s toys, power tools and e-cigarettes. 

Follow these key tips to minimise the risk of fire:  

• Buy from reputable retailers. Make sure to register your product with the manufacturer so that you will be informed about any product recalls.
• Always use the manufacturer approved charger for the product. If you spot any signs of wear and tear or damage buy an official replacement charger for your product from a reputable seller.
• Do not charge batteries or store your e-bike or e-scooter near combustible or flammable materials.
• Do not store or charge e-bikes or e-scooters on escape routes or in communal areas. Store the batteries in a cool, dry place.
• Never charge overnight or when you are away from the property – always keep it in sight and always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
• Make sure you charge your appliance in a well-ventilated area and do not cover the battery. Never charge smaller items, such as your mobile phone, under your pillow.
• Don’t overcharge - always unplug your charger when it is finished charging.

What to do in the event of a lithium-ion battery fire 

In the event of a fire do not attempt to tackle it yourself. Get out, stay out, and call 999. Remember, disposing of a lithium batteries must be done at a Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC).

More information can be found at http://www.batteryfiresafety.co.uk or www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk

Candles

Candles and tea-lights can create a relaxing or special atmosphere in the home, used by people of all ages. They are also part of many religious and cultural celebrations - but are also a major cause of fires.

Keep safe by following these tips:

• Candles and incense sticks should always be held firmly in tight fitting holders and placed on a flat, stable, heat-resistant surface where they won’t be knocked over.
• Never leave a lit tealight unattended – even for a few seconds – and always use proper holders.
• Keep candles and flames away from clothes, curtains, cushions, paper and other things that might catch fire.
• Keep candles and flames out of wind or draughts.
• Do not put them under shelves, they can heat up the shelf above and cause a fire.
• Ensure candles and other naked flames are out of reach of children and pets and never leave them alone with burning candles.
• Do not use them if you’ve been drinking alcohol or feel sleepy

Never leave candles unattended. Always put them out when you leave the room, go to bed, or leave the house.