Fire Safety in your home or workplace

Smoke alarms – they're not an early warning, they’re your only warning.

Smoke alarms

Read our tips and troubleshooting guides or request a fire safety visit.

Emergency planning advice from Hertfordshire Resilience.

For homes, high rise flats, landlords, workplaces and businesses.

Smoke alarms

Injuries and deaths can be prevented if you fit your home with a smoke alarm.

You can buy one for about £5 from any good electrical or DIY shop. Make sure it meets British Standards and displays the Kitemark logo.

We can check your smoke detector’s working or fit a new one for free, if you need it.

7 smoke alarm tips

Fit your smoke alarm at least 30 cms (12 inches) away from any wall or light fitting and as close to the centre of the room, hallway or landing as possible.
Don't fit a smoke alarm in the kitchen or bathroom as cooking fumes or steam may trigger it.
Don't fit a smoke alarm in the garage where exhaust fumes are likely to set it off.
If your home is on 1 level, fit at least one alarm in the hallway between the bedroom and the exit.
If your home is on more than 1 level, fit at least one alarm at the bottom of the stairs, with additional alarms on each upstairs landing.
Check your smoke alarm every month.
Change the battery every year, vacuum and wipe the casing and slots (unless you have a 10 year battery).

Troubleshooting guides

For some detectors fitted by HFRS please view the manufacturers troubleshooting guide before contacting us.

For information on other makes of smoke detection, please contact your supplier.

If there is a fire in your home, it'll be much easier for you to escape if you've already thought about the best way to get out quickly.

Work out an escape route, making sure that you always keep it clear of obstructions like toys or anything that could block your way.
Keep keys to doors and windows accessible.
Check all the family know how to escape.
Tell family or friends who may stay at your home overnight.

If you can’t open the window, break the glass in the bottom corner. Make jagged edges safe with a towel or blanket.
If you're on the ground floor, get out of a window. Use bedding to cushion your fall and lower yourself. Don't jump.
If you can’t get out, get everyone into 1 room, preferably with a window and a phone. Put bedding or towels round the door to block the smoke.
Call 999 as soon as you can.

Contact our fire protection team for advice on inspections, building consultations and investigations of non-domestic premises.