Bedsits and flats
Fires in bedsits and flats are common which is why it’s important to stay safe.
If your accommodation has fire protection, such as self-closing doors, a fire alarm system with smoke and heat detectors, or emergency lighting, these have been installed to protect you in case of a fire. If they are not working for any reason, let your landlord or maintenance contractor know immediately
If you live in sheltered accommodation or a residential home, ask your landlord or warden to explain the safety plans for the premises and make sure you know your safest exit route, or ask your carer to contact our Vulnerable People team.
If your accommodation does not have this kind of fire protection you need to:
- fit a smoke alarm in your flat/bedsit and in the stairway outside your front door to give early warning of a fire
- keep a torch handy to help you find your way out in the dark
- if there is a fire - warn others in the building and make your way out as quickly as possible
- keep your escape route clear at all times - rubbish or other items stored on or under the stairway, landings and hall are a fire risk
- not use lifts
- check to make sure you're not overloading your electrical sockets.
If there is a fire and the staircase is blocked
- return to your flat/bedsit, close the door and make your way to the nearest window
- try not to panic
- if you have safe access to a telephone, dial 999 for the fire service
- shout for help as loudly as you can
- wait to be rescued by the fire service.
If you are a leaseholder in a high rise property, you can find free advice and information from the Leasehold Advisory Service, a public body sponsored by the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government
Found the information you need? If you have any other questions, contact our friendly team on 0800 923 7000 or email us at home@kent.fire-uk.org
Don’t forget you may be eligible for a free Safe and Well Visit to help make your home a safer place. Take a look at our Safe and Well page and contact the team if you would like more information.