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Home safety

Find out how to stay safe at home – from knowing your emergency evacuation plans to gas and electrical safety tips.

Home safety tips

Know your emergency evacuation plan

Make sure everyone who lives in or visits your home knows how to leave in an emergency, and be sure to plan and practice this escape route. Here are some useful tips when creating your emergency evacuation plan:

  • the best route is the usual way in and out of your home
  • plan of a second route in case the first one is blocked
  • keep door and window keys where they can be found easily in an emergency
  • keep balconies clear so they don’t block your escape
  • make sure escape routes, communal areas, and exits are kept clear at all times.

Find out more about fire safety and evacuation plans

DIY safety tips

  • Make sure your tools are all in good condition and check their leads and plugs. 
  • Use a cable detector to avoid drilling, nailing, or screwing into cables inside your walls. 
  • Use a residual current device (RCD) to cut off the power in emergency.
  • Turn off the power when working near electrical wiring and use battery-powered tools.  
  • Get professional advice from a registered electrician. Remember, if you’re not sure what to do, don't do it yourself.