We have seen an increase across the region in the number of fire fatalities and fire related injuries. There are various factors which increase a persons risk such as:
- age
- mobility
- smoking
- alcohol use
- use of paraffin-based emollient creams
- self-neglect
- hoarding
- mental health
- living alone and isolation
Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS) have added more health and wellbeing elements to their standard home fire safety checks. The Home Fire Safety Check visits aim to identify all fire and lifestyle associated hazards in order to reduce the risk of having a fire or accident in the home.
Gateshead SAB partners have worked with TWFRS to deliver various methods of fire safety education and protection advice and will fit appropriate smoke, heat detection and safety systems which include specialised equipment for the deaf and hard of hearing.
Advice is tailored to the person's circumstances and needs and the visit will include:
- fire escape plans
- kitchen and cooking safety
- electrical safety
- smoking safety
- candle safety
To complete the Home Fire Safety Check (opens new window) as a practitioner on behalf of a client, enter the postcode of the person's property, then select the "No - I am completing this check for someone else" tile:
Then select the "Approved Referrer/ Partner Agency" tile, and complete the form.
Resources
Please download these free resources:
- Safe and Well Poster with QR code which you can display within your establishment. Safe and Well Poster with QR Code (PDF, 434 KB)
- Safe and Well Leaflet with QR code Safe and Well Leaflet (A5) (PDF, 868 KB)
- Wallet card with details of when and how to refer for a Safe and Well Check When to refer Card (PDF, 1 MB)
- Fire Risk Checklist Fire Risk Check List (PDF, 10 MB)
Information for the public
Anyone can complete the Home Fire Safety Check (opens new window) for themselves and receive tailored information, advice and guidance on how to make their home safer.