Home Fire Safety Checklist: How to Get Ready for Fire Safety Month in October

Fire is one of the most devastating risks any household can face. It can take just seconds for flames to spread and cause irreversible damage. That’s why October’s National Fire Safety Month is the ideal time to ensure your home is fully prepared to prevent fire—and respond swiftly if the worst should happen.

At Fireline UK, we believe fire safety starts at home. Whether you live in a detached house, a flat, or a shared building, a few simple checks and updates can dramatically reduce your risk. In this guide, we’ve put together a comprehensive home fire safety checklist to help you prepare for Fire Safety Month and protect your property, your loved ones, and your peace of mind.

Why Fire Safety Month Matters for Homeowners

Fire Safety Month is a nationwide initiative designed to raise awareness about the importance of fire prevention and preparedness. While it’s often associated with commercial premises and public buildings, the truth is that most fires in the UK occur in the home.

Common causes include:

  • Faulty or overloaded electrical appliances

  • Unattended cooking

  • Portable heaters left too close to flammable materials

  • Candles or smoking indoors

  • Chimney and flue fires

  • Lack of working smoke alarms

Taking time in October to check your home for risks could make all the difference in an emergency. Prevention, preparation, and awareness save lives.

Your Home Fire Safety Checklist

1. Test Your Smoke Alarms

Your first and most vital line of defence is the smoke alarm. UK fire services recommend you have at least one working smoke alarm on every level of your home. During Fire Safety Month:

  • Test each smoke alarm using the button provided

  • Replace the batteries if needed (unless it’s a sealed unit)

  • Vacuum around the unit to remove dust and cobwebs

  • Check the expiry date – alarms generally need replacing every 10 years

If you don’t have a smoke alarm, don’t wait. They’re inexpensive, easy to fit, and could save your life.

2. Check for Electrical Hazards

Electrical fires are a major cause of household blazes. October is the perfect time to:

  • Inspect plugs and leads for fraying or damage

  • Avoid overloading sockets or using daisy-chained extension leads

  • Unplug appliances when not in use

  • Ensure electric blankets are in good condition and stored correctly

  • Book a qualified electrician if you have any concerns about wiring or circuits

3. Practice Safe Cooking

The kitchen is the most common place for house fires to start. Stay safe by:

  • Never leaving cooking unattended, especially when frying

  • Keeping flammable items (tea towels, paper, curtains) away from hobs

  • Turning pan handles inward to prevent knocks or spills

  • Keeping children and pets out of the kitchen during meal prep

  • Installing a fire blanket and ensuring it’s accessible in case of emergency

If you do have a small kitchen fire, only attempt to tackle it if it’s safe to do so. Never use water on oil or electrical fires—this can make the situation worse.

4. Plan and Practise Your Escape Route

Every household should have a clear escape plan. Ask yourself:

  • How will everyone get out in the event of a fire?

  • Are doors and windows easy to open?

  • Are stairs or corridors clear of clutter?

  • Where will you meet outside once you’ve evacuated?

Discuss the plan with your family and practise it at least once a year. For flats or shared buildings, check your building’s fire evacuation strategy with the management company or landlord.

5. Install Carbon Monoxide Alarms

While not a fire risk, carbon monoxide (CO) is another silent killer. It’s produced when gas, oil, wood or coal doesn’t burn properly. If you use a boiler, wood burner, gas fire, or open fireplace, you should:

  • Install a CO alarm in every room with a fuel-burning appliance

  • Test it regularly

  • Keep vents and flues unblocked

  • Get your appliances serviced annually by a Gas Safe engineer

6. Be Candle and Heater Aware

Candles, incense, and portable heaters all add comfort to the home—but must be used responsibly. During Fire Safety Month:

  • Keep candles in sturdy holders and away from curtains or soft furnishings

  • Never leave candles or oil burners unattended

  • Place portable heaters at least a metre away from anything flammable

  • Never dry clothes directly on a heater or in front of an open fire

Consider switching to battery-operated LED candles for a safer glow.

7. Review Fire Safety for Vulnerable People

If anyone in your home is elderly, disabled, or has limited mobility, it’s essential to ensure they can evacuate safely and quickly. In these cases, you may need:

  • Visual or vibrating smoke alarms for those with hearing impairments

  • A stairlift that does not block an escape route

  • A personal evacuation plan with assistance identified

  • Nightlights or emergency torches for visibility

Fire Safety Equipment for the Home

A few small purchases can significantly enhance your home’s fire readiness. Consider investing in:

  • A fire extinguisher (ideally a small multi-purpose one)

  • A fire blanket for the kitchen

  • Emergency torches or lights near your bed

  • Fireproof document storage for valuables and important papers

Remember, equipment is only useful if you know how to use it—so read the instructions and keep it accessible.

Final Thoughts: Be Prepared, Not Panicked

Fire Safety Month is not about creating fear—it’s about empowering homeowners to take small, effective steps that reduce risks and improve safety. A few minutes spent checking alarms, clearing clutter, and planning an escape can make all the difference in an emergency.

Stay Safe with Support from Fireline UK

At Fireline UK, we provide expert fire safety services, equipment, and advice for both homes and businesses. Whether you’re looking for a home fire extinguisher, smoke alarm installation, or guidance on safety best practices, we’re here to help.