Safety Hub

Escape plan

Having a smoke alarm is the first crucial step to protecting yourself from fire. But what would you do if it went off during the night?
British Sign Language video for this safety page
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A well-practised escape plan could be a life-saver if you have a fire.

Make sure you have an escape plan involving everyone who lives in your home and share the plan with any visitors.

This means everyone will know what to do if there's an emergency. It's also useful to practice your escape plan, especially with young children, so they understand what they need to do.

Our video on this section covers the important information, but here are some top tips to keep you safe:

  • the best escape route is the normal way in and out of your home
  • make sure everyone knows where your door and window keys are kept.
  • think of any difficulties you may have getting out, e.g. at night you may need a torch
  • keep the route and exits clear of obstructions
  • think about how children, older or disabled people or pets will get out
  • choose a second escape route, in case your first choice is blocked.
  • NEVER be tempted to tackle a fire yourself, however small it appears. ALWAYS get out, stay out, call 999.

Finding Refuge

If you can’t escape, you’ll need to find a room to take refuge in. This is especially important if you have difficulty moving around on your own.

While you can never be sure where a fire will start, having an idea which rooms you could safely take refuge in if there was a fire, is essential.

Other related safety topics

Register your products

When you’re buying home appliances or electronics, online or from a store, it’s important you register your products with the manufacturer. It helps them to contact you if something’s wrong.
A graphic with a washing machine icon and register your appliance next to it above a bar code

Smoking

Smoking at home can be risky, especially if cigarettes are left unattended. Stay safe by following our tips.
Several cigarettes in an ash tray with one still lit

Smoke alarms

Smoke alarms are essential for every home and ensure you and your family can be warned early if there's a fire.
A smoke alarm, carbon monoxide detector and hearing impaired smoke alarm

Petrol storage at home

While you can store petrol at home, there are strict rules and safety guidelines you should follow.
A person carrying a small plastic petrol can with a card in the background

High-rise safety

Those living in high-rise blocks aren't more at risk from fire, but we've got some helpful advice to keep you safe if there's an emergency.
A photograph of high-rise blocks around a canal in Birmingham city centre.

Candle safety

Candles may be beautiful and soothing, but they are flames and need to be handled with care.
A small lit candle on a table infront of blurred out lights.

Services we offer related to Escape plan

Schools and education

Educating our communities' young people is an important part of what we do as a service.
A firefighter pointing to a presentation during a school visit

Safe and Well

Safe and Well visits are an important part of our prevention activity. They enable us to advise and educate on safety at home, with a particular focus on our most vulnerable residents.
A firefighter talking through our Safe and Well booklet with a home owner
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