Tips for keeping safe from fire during warm weather

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We’re seeing warmer weather as we approach the summer months. And you may be starting to enjoy cooking outdoors.
But while we’re having fun in the sun, here’s some information to help prevent fires and keep you and your family safe.

Barbecue fire safety

Barbecues

Barbecues are not permitted on balconies due to the fire safety risk they pose – this is in line with the terms of our tenancy and lease agreements.

If you have your own garden and are considering having a barbecue, please consider the following:

  • Be careful where you position your BBQ – we suggest on level ground, well away from anything flammable like sheds, fences, trees or tents.
  • Never use petrol, paraffin or any flammable liquids on your BBQ – firelighters much safer.
  • BBQs can stay hot for hours and can also give off carbon monoxide fumes for several hours after they go out, so don't bring them indoors, or into a tent, with you.

Fire doors

Even though it may be tempting to keep fire doors wedged open to let air circulate, please make sure that all fire doors stay closed.

Fire doors are there to protect you and can prevent a fire from spreading for up to 30 minutes. If a fire was to occur and the doors were kept open, it would spread quickly throughout the building and affect your own and other residents’ safety.

Aerosols and glass

Did you know that aerosols left on windowsills in the heat can explode and cause fires? And mirrors or glass beads in direct sunlight could bounce onto something flammable?

If you have items in your home that are a fire risk, consider closing your curtains or blinds at times to prevent fires.

Further information

You can watch our Fire Safety video for tips on how to keep safe from fire, and read about how smoke detectors can save lives.  

Fire safety advice is available on the London Fire Brigade website