In a house fire, it takes only 2-3 breaths of toxic fumes to render a person unconscious, and death quickly follows.

Follow these simple tips to both help prevent house fires occurring and keep your family safe if they do.

Fit a smoke alarm

Fitting smoke alarms in your home is the simplest step you can take to help prevent tragedies. Ensure it conforms to current government standards and provides state of the art protection as well as notification.

Store matches and electrical items safely

Make sure matches and small electrical items are packed away in clearly marked boxes and out of the reach of small children. Cover sockets and install cupboard locks at your house as soon as possible if you have toddlers. Keep electrical leads away from high traffic areas to avoid trip hazards and remember to unplug appliances at night unless they are designed to remain on, such as freezers.

Check electrical appliances

Check socket limits and avoid overloading them, which can lead to overheating and fire hazards. Inspect plugs to ensure there is not any dislodged wiring. Faulty electrics (appliances, wiring and overloaded sockets) cause around 10,000 house fires across the country every year.

Choose an escape route

As a family, select an escape route and make sure everyone knows about it. This is the best way to leave the house if there is a fire: ensure the exit is clear at all times. If doors are double locked at any time everyone should be aware of where the keys are kept.

Check the chimney

Open fires have become more popular in recent years. It can be exciting to use one for the first time but they can be dangerous. Before lighting one ensure that the chimney has been swept. This includes chimneys being used as flues for gas fires, so if in doubt ask a professional.

Fit carbon monoxide detectors

Carbon monoxide poisoning can result from burning all fossil fuels, not just gas fires and boilers, so you’ll need a detector even if you just have an open fire. Check when your boiler or heating appliances were last serviced and consult a professional if in any doubt. Carbon monoxide detectors should comply with all government standards.

Invest in fire safety equipment

Fire extinguishers and fire blankets can – and should – be used in the home but it is extremely important you know exactly how to use each one.

Designate a fire room

With help from a fire office choose a fire room where you and your family can wait for the fire brigade if you are prevented from escaping from a house fire. The room should be easily visible from the outside and have a connected telephone.

Arrange a fire safety check

Many Fire and Rescue Services offer a fire safety risk assessment for free, an invaluable tool that could end up saving your life.