Home Fire Safety & Prevention Guide - Pinnacle

What is a fire/smoke alarm?

A fire or smoke alarm is a device that quickly spots smoke or fire in your home. It makes a loud noise to warn you so you can get out safely. Having a working alarm is very important. There are two main types of fire/smoke alarms.

A smoke detector is the most common fire alarm in homes. It works by using a sensor inside the alarm. When smoke gets inside, it blocks the sensor and the alarm makes a loud noise.

Smoke alarms are very sensitive, so they should be cleaned regularly with a vacuum cleaner nozzle to stop dust setting them off.

To avoid false alarms, keep kitchen doors shut when cooking and use extractor fans or open windows to let out steam and smoke.

A heat detector is used in places like kitchens where a smoke alarm might go off by mistake. It uses a sensor that spots sudden heat from a fire.

Heat detectors should be cleaned regularly with a vacuum cleaner nozzle to keep them working properly.

Smoke and heat alarms are usually fitted on the ceiling, or high up on a wall.

You will normally have one on each floor, often in the hallway or on the landing.

Some alarms are connected to your home’s electricity. Others run only on batteries.

Wired alarms also have a backup battery, so they will still work if the power goes out.

  • Keep the alarm clear and don’t touch it. Don’t cover it, paint it, or put stickers on it. Clean it now and then with a vacuum nozzle.
  • Test the alarm regularly (once a week is best). Press and hold the test button until it beeps. If you can’t reach it, use something like a wooden spoon handle.
  • Test each alarm if you have more than one.
  • Most alarms have a red light that flashes to show they’re working. If the battery is low, the alarm might beep or show a solid light to warn you it needs changing.

Never disconnect or tamper with your alarm. It is there to keep your family safe.

If you think the alarm is faulty, report it to the helpdesk straight away:

www.pinnacleservicefamilies.co.uk
0800 031 8628
repairs@pinnacleservicefamilies.co.uk

Cooking safety Q&A

No, always turn off the heat if you need to step away.

Keep tea towels, paper, and anything flammable well away.

It’s safer to avoid cooking when tired or under the influence of alcohol or medication.

Regularly, as grease build-up can cause fires.

  • Stay in the kitchen – never leave the fryer alone.
  • Keep the area clear – don’t put it near curtains or anything that can burn.
  • Use a proper fryer – not a pan on the hob. It keeps the oil at a safe temperature.
  • Don’t overfill it – follow the instructions so the oil doesn’t spill.
  • Dry food first – water and hot oil can cause dangerous splashes.
  • Keep children and pets away – hot oil can cause bad burns.
  • Turn it off when done – unplug it and let it cool before cleaning.

  • Turn off the heat only if it’s safe.
  • Never use water – it can make the fire explode.
  • Use a fire blanket or damp towel to cover the flames.
  • Call 999 straight away.

Electrical safety

Look for a British or European safety mark, CE or UKCA.

Avoid it. High‑power items like kettles, toasters, air fryers and heaters can overload the socket and cause a fire.

Always switch off and unplug when possible.

Use flat extension leads, uncoil them fully, don’t overload them, and make sure they’re not trapped or squashed.

Never leave them on without watching them, and let them cool on a flat, heatproof surface.

Candles, smoking & open flames

Place them on a flat, heat‑proof surface, well away from curtains and soft furnishings.

It’s safer to smoke outside. Never smoke in bed.

Use a heavy ashtray and ensure everything is fully extinguished before disposal.

  • Use the charger that came with it (or one the maker recommends).
  • Charge on a flat, hard surface – not on beds, sofas or carpets.
  • Don’t charge overnight or when you’re out.
  • Keep it away from heat and sunlight.
  • Don’t leave it unattended while charging.
  • If the battery looks swollen, leaking, too hot or smells strange, stop using it.
  • Don’t throw batteries in the bin – take them to a battery recycling point.

Portable heaters, gas fires & open fires

Keep a large clear area around any portable heater, never cover them or place items close to them, Oil-filled radiators are generally safer than fan or bar heaters. Never leave turned on while unattended

  • Change cylinders outside, or somewhere with lots of fresh air.
  • Store spare cylinders outdoors if you can.
  • Never keep them in small spaces or near electrical items.

  • Use a fire guard to stop sparks, especially with children or pets around.
  • Keep the area clear – store logs or coal well away, and don’t dry clothes near the fire.
  • Get the chimney swept regularly (the maintenance team will contact you to arrange this).
  • Never leave the fire unattended – make sure it’s fully out or safely covered before bed or going out.
  • Use the right fuel – only burn dry wood or approved smokeless fuel. Don’t burn rubbish or treated wood.
  • Keep the room aired so smoke can escape.

    Find more info at https://nfcc.org.uk/

Battery safety (vapes, e-bikes, phones, etc.)

  • Always use the original charger that came with your device.
  • If you need a new one, buy a branded, real charger from a trusted shop.
  • Avoid cheap or fake chargers – they can be dangerous.
  • Check for CE or UKCA safety marks.
  • Make sure the charger matches your device.

Only charge devices when you’re home and awake.

On flat, hard surfaces – never on beds or sofas.

Stop using it immediately, unplug and remove from the house.

Never throw them in the bin. Take them to a recycling facility.

E-bike & e-scooter safety

Charge in a well-ventilated area, away from escape routes.

Never store or charge e-bikes or scooters in hallways of communal area as they block exits.

  • Follow the instructions that come with the appliance.
  • Clean the lint filter in your tumble dryer after every use.
  • Don’t overload your dryer or washing machine.
  • Don’t leave appliances running when you’re out or asleep.
  • Keep vents clear on fridges and freezers so they don’t overheat.
  • Register your appliances and check for recalls.

What should I do in a fire?

Call 999 straight away if:
– You see flames or smoke.
– You smell burning and think there might be a fire.
– Anyone is in danger or can’t get out safely.
– A smoke alarm goes off and you can’t check safely.

Stay in a room with a window, close the door, and call for help.

Yes – make sure you can grab them quickly in an emergency.

Reporting safety issues

  • Call Pinnacle Service Families on 0800 031 8628 (choose Repairs – option 1).
  • We’re open 24/7 and will arrange someone to come and check the problem.
  • Give as much detail as you can so they can fix it quickly.

Further advice