Check your fire warnings and escape arrangements

A fire alarm and an escape plan answer different questions. The alarm warns you; the plan helps you act. Check both with the people you live with, including anyone who may not hear an alarm or be able to move without help.

Your building matters. London Fire Brigade gives different escape guidance for purpose-built flats and for houses or converted flats. Don't copy a plan for a different kind of home. Find out which arrangements apply where you live.

This guide draws practical principles from London Fire Brigade's fire-service guidance. Follow your own building's current fire instructions. Check local or building-specific questions with your fire and rescue service or the person responsible for fire safety in your building.

1. Find the smoke and heat alarms in your home and check their instructions. Different alarms suit different locations; the fire service's guidance explains the distinction, including heat alarms for kitchens.
2. Test and maintain alarms as directed. A device attached to the ceiling is not evidence that it is working. Ask the landlord or responsible person to address faults where appropriate.
3. Consider whether the warning would reach everyone, including while asleep. Specialist alarms are available for people who are deaf or hard of hearing; ask your local fire and rescue service about suitable advice.
4. Use an appropriately qualified electrician for mains-powered alarm work. Don't disconnect an inconvenient alarm and leave the home without suitable warning.

For a house or converted flat, work through the normal way out and what could block it. Keep keys accessible to the people who need them and routes clear. Talk through what someone would do from the room where they sleep, rather than only from the front door.

For a purpose-built block, obtain and understand the building's current fire instructions. Ask the responsible building manager or local fire service if they are unclear, particularly if someone will need help. Instructions may differ according to where a fire occurs and the building's fire arrangements.

An agreed plan should account for people who cannot use the route independently. Ask for help with that planning now; don't assume another resident or visiting carer will always be present.

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• Escape routes are clear and keys are where the people who need them can find them.
• Cooking appliances are off, and electrical items are switched off unless designed to stay on, such as a fridge.
• Washing machines, tumble dryers and dishwashers are not left running overnight unattended.
• Portable heaters are off, and candles or other open flames are fully extinguished.
• Mobility aids and a way to call for help are within reach where needed.
• Internal doors are closed to help limit the spread of smoke.

If hearing the warning, understanding the instructions or moving safely is a concern, speak to your local fire and rescue service. A home fire-safety discussion is more useful than guessing what another person's arrangements would mean for you. Keep the agreed contacts and arrangements with your household plan.