Every year, more than 37,000 household fires are reported in the UK, resulting in over 260 fatalities and 7,300 injuries.

Shockingly, one in ten of these fire victims are children. Despite the devastating impact of fires, fire safety often takes a backseat in our daily routines. However, many homes in Wells have hidden dangers that can lead to catastrophic fires.

Recently, several domestic fires have occurred in homes across Somerset, including Wells. While some of these fires were due to appliance failures, most were caused by lifestyle factors. General clutter and hoarding significantly increase the risk of fires. Efforts are being made to make properties safer with smoke alarms and fire doors, but residents can also take steps to protect their homes.

How to make your home safer

• Smoke Alarms: Ensure you have a working smoke alarm and test it weekly.
• Cooking Areas: Keep cooking areas clear, whether you use a traditional oven or a portable stove.
• Electrical Equipment: Do not place items on or near heaters, lamps, or other electrical devices.
• Gas Cylinders: Avoid storing gas cylinders indoors. If necessary for medical reasons, keep them upright and outdoors.
• Smoking: Use a proper ashtray on a stable surface and never leave lit cigarettes unattended.
• Candles: If you must use candles, place them in heat-resistant holders on stable, flat surfaces and keep them away from flammable items.
• Escape Plan: Plan and practise an escape route, keeping it clear of possessions to facilitate a quick exit.
• Storage: Store possessions on stable surfaces and avoid stacking items too high.
• Recycling: Sort and recycle newspapers and mail regularly to prevent them from becoming fuel for fires.
• Emergency Response: In the event of a fire, leave immediately and call the fire service. Do not stop to collect possessions or return inside once you have escaped.
• Boilers: Do not leave clothing or piles of clothes under boilers.

Bin store fires in Wells

Bin stores can pose a fire hazard if they are overloaded or targeted by arsonists.

• Bin Maintenance: Ensure bins are not overflowing and lids can shut fully.
• Combustibles: Keep combustibles away from bin store lighting.
• Security: Secure bin store doors after use.
• Hot Items: Do not place hot items, such as smoking materials or BBQ embers, in bins.
• Storage: Keep wheelie bins and domestic waste away from windows and doors to prevent fires from spreading into your property.
• Blockages: Report any blockages in bin chutes to the relevant authorities immediately.

Outdoor fires in Wells

Garden fires and BBQs can also pose risks.

• Weather Conditions: Avoid lighting fires on windy days.
• Storage: Keep BBQ equipment and combustible materials away from buildings.
• Fire Location: Build fires or fire pits away from properties, sheds, garages, fences, and hedges.
• Flammable Liquids: Do not use flammable liquids to start fires.
• Burning Rubbish: Never burn rubbish such as aerosol cans, paint, foam furniture, or batteries.
• Extinguishing Tools: Keep a bucket of water or hose pipe nearby in case you need to extinguish the flames.

For further information, advice, and support related to hoarding, please contact the MIND Charity. Stay safe, Wells!

Further information, advice and support in relation to Hoarding can be accessed via The MIND Charity