Safety and security

The safety amd security of our residents is very important to us. This section gives you information and advice to make your home a safer place to live.

Fire

We ensure our buildings comply with fire regulations. The buildings have been designed and constructed with your safety in mind. The walls, doors between the flats, stairs and corridors are specifically designed to resist fire and stop the spread of smoke - when they are not in use these doors should be kept closed.

In your flat, you will find you can get to the front door from the bedroom without going through the rooms where a fire is most likely to start - the kitchen and the living room.

What to do if a fire breaks out in the flat

• Alert any other people in the flat
• Leave the room at once and close the door. Do not tackle the fire, unless it is safe to do so
• Leave the flat, when everyone is out, close the front door. Do not use balconies unless they are part of an official escape route.
• If the alarm is not sounding, break the glass on the nearest fire alarm call point on the way out.
• Call the fire brigade - it's 999 and free from any telephone

If a fire breaks out elsewhere in the building

It is important for you to stay in your flat. But if your own flat is affected by the heat or smoke, leave at once closing windows and doors.

Bedtime routine for all residents

• Switch off and unplug appliances - only leave on those appliances that are designed to be left on, like some video recorders, fridges and freezers.

• Check the cooker - Make sure the grill, hobs and oven are all turned off
• Do not leave the dishwasher, washing machine etc on - Their high speed of operation, friction and motors mean they can be a fire risk
• Avoid using candles in the property. It is our recommendation that candles are not used at all
• Make sure cigarettes and pipes are out, wetting them to be sure. Never smoke in bed. It is possible to fall asleep accidentally and set fire to bedding
• Check the escape route - It should be clear of obstacles (making sure the front door of the flat can be opened easily)
• Close doors, as this will slow down the spread of fire
• Turn off electric blankets - unless it can be left absolutely safely - e.g. has a thermostat that is designed to be left on

Fire alarm testing

All schemes are fitted with fire alarm systems which are tested weekly by the Scheme Manager. Each flat is also fitted with heat/smoke detectors which when triggered will alert the Manager or Central Control via the Warden Call Alarm.

We will tell you what you need to do in the event of a fire and notices telling you the correct procedures are displayed on the back of the flat front door.

Security

While the Scheme Manager is responsible for general security of the building it is also your responsibility to take sensible precautions to maintain security by observing our security checklist:

• At night and when you go out, even for short periods, make sure you have closed all windows and locked doors
• Always check the identity of all callers before letting them in
• If there is any doubt do not let them in and inform the Scheme Manager
• If you use an external communal door, ensure that it is properly close
• You must always tell the Scheme Manager if you intend to be away from the scheme overnight. Report anything out of the ordinary to the Manager on duty.

Door entry system

A door entry system is fitted for all the schemes. This allows you to operate the main door by pressing the door release button from the flat. If you are unsure about the visitor at the door, they must not be allowed in. Instead contact your Scheme Manager.

Master key

The Scheme Manager holds a master key which operates the lock on front doors. It will only be used in emergencies.

It is strongly recommended that you do not fit additional locks, bolts or chains as valuable time may be lost by the Manager or emergency services gaining access in an emergency. If a forced entry is necessary, residents may be responsible for the cost of making good any damage.