National Hoarding Awareness Week Brings Fire Service Warning

At first glance, there might not seem like much of a connection between what we do here at Blackburn Alarms and a week organised by the Chief Fire Officers’ Association to raise awareness of the dangers of hoarding.

We’ve all watched the TV shows about people who are unable to throw away their old belongings and rubbish – who pile up stack of old magazines, books, clothes and a multitude of other items in their homes.

The TV shows focus on the hygiene angle – but the CFOA are more concerned with the fire risk.

In fact, hoarders’ homes can become so cluttered that escaping from a fire can be almost impossible.

Of course hoarding is an extreme psychological condition that affects only a small percentage of society – but much of the advice issued by the CFOA applies to all homes:

• Make sure that you have smoke alarms installed, that they work correctly, and are regularly tested

• Plan an escape route in case of emergency – and consider what to do if your route is blocked

• Always keep your cooking area clean and tidy to prevent accidental fires

• Don’t leave wires trailing across the floors. Pack away extension leads when you’ve finished with them

• Use heat-resistant holders for candles, and a proper ash tray if you smoke

• Don’t be a hero! In the event of a fire get out of the house and call the fire brigade

Preventing fires is a matter of taking good care. However, in the event that a fire does break out in your home, it’s that first piece of advice that could save lives.  Properly working smoke alarms with fresh batteries will give you the best chance of discovering the fire early and escaping.

We hope you’ll never need them but for an obligation-free conversation about how a simple smoke alarm could save you and your family, call us on 01254 739 255 or contact us here.