During an emergency, ordinary objects in your home can cause injury or damage. However, there are simple steps you can take to make your home safer.
Start by viewing each room with an “careful eye” and identify potential hazards, e.g. bookshelves that could tip over in a flood and block exits or heavy objects that could fall and cause injury.
- install smoke detectors on each level of your home and change batteries every six months (if not already installed)
- clear hallways and exits for easy evacuation
- store heavy items on the lowest shelves
- store flammable or highly reactive chemicals (such as bleach, ammonia, paint thinners) securely and separate from each other
- know how and when to switch off your power supplies
- ensure that all windows have emergency releases
- be sure your home number is visible from the street so emergency services can find you
The preparing for emergencies booklet.pdf (1309Kb) is a short useful guide to help you protect you and your family.
The booklet is available in a number of languages.
Links to guidance relating to specific emergency situations is available.