SMOKE ALARMS

Building regulations in Ireland require that all new houses be fitted with smoke alarms and wired directly to the mains power, unfortunately that only covers a small percentage of homes. All homes new and old should have at least 2 smoke detectors fitted. Where every home is different one should be up in the upstairs landing just above the stairs.

It is advised that people check that they have properly working Smoke alarms, to close doors when going to bed, and check that all electrical appliances are switched off. Most fires happen at night while people are asleep. When there's fire, smoke will actually put sleeping people into a deeper sleep, it will not wake them. By installing smoke alarms you will have early warning devices which give you time to act before you and your family are overcome by dangerous smoke and fumes. Two smoke alarms, properly located, would suit the average home. You should only install smoke alarms manufactured to recognised standards.

Irish Standard      IS 409 of 1988

Make sure that all smoke alarms are properly installed and maintained. Test the alarms and their batteries regularly.  GO DO IT NOW!!

The Escape Drill

Most often, when a fire breaks out, things can happen very quickly and in a situation where seconds can save lives, you and your family need to be able to act without hesitation. A rehearsed fire drill can make all the difference.

YOUR FIRE DRILL AT A GLANCE.

• Together, plan two escape routes from each room.

• Close all doors behind you as you leave.

• The stairs are your primary escape route - keep them clear.

• If your clothes catch fire - stop, drop and roll.

• Do not re-enter the house for any reason.

• Phone the Fire Brigade from a nearby outside phone.

• Decide on a meeting point outside the house near where the Fire Brigade is likely to arrive.

If you are prevented from leaving by smoke, heat or fire, close the room door and seal all cracks with sheets or clothing, Stay near the window and attract attention by waving a piece of clothing or a sheet.

Chip-pans.

Chip-pans are very dangerous. You can receive severe burns from both flames and molten fat or oil. We would recommend that if you want to cook "deep-fry" food, please use a deep fat fryer with a thermostatic control and a pop-up lid. That said, if you still insist on using a pan or pot to make chips, or whatever, all we ask is that you follow these few instructions....

• Never fill a chip pan to more than a third of half full.

• Turn handles of saucepans on cookers inwards, but not over other rings.

• Never leave a chip-pan unattended. If you have to answer the doorbell or telephone, turn off the power and remove the chip-pan to a cold ring/hob.

• If the chip pan does catch fire use a blanket or the correct extinguisher, or smother the flames with a lid, large plate or a well dampened towel (Not wet)

• DO NOT ATTEMPT TO MOVE THE PAN OR TO USE WATER to put out the fire.

We would ask you to consider the Lives of your family or friends when coming home from an evening out or if you are tired, Please under no circumstances reach for a Chip Pan for a late night snack there is no excuse for not taking home a Take-Away.

What causes a chimney fire?

Chimney fires occur when deposits of carbon and dust (soot) accumulate in a chimney and are set alight by sparks or flames from an open fire. Most solid fuels create some kind of soot which without regular cleaning of chimneys builds up and will eventually catch fire.

How are they avoided?

Regular cleaning is the only way chimney fires can be avoided. Chimneys should be swept thoroughly at least twice a year, once perhaps at the beginning of the cold weather period, i.e. after the Summer/Autumn to clear chimney of  debris (Birds Nest, etc.) which may have accumulated and also remove soot. They should also be swept mid-way through the winter to ensure a fire does not occur.

What do I do if a Chimney Fire Starts? 

Place a fireguard in front of the fire to stop the soot falling out. Pour water over the fire a little at a time (be careful of the steam) to extinguish it and keep a supply of water available, should it be needed. Phone for the Fire Service and keep a watchful eye on the fire until they arrive.

Are they dangerous?

Yes, chimney fires are particularly dangerous in that they can structurally weaken the flue liner chimney block causing cracks to form into which sparks may enter and so cause fires elsewhere in the house. Burning soot may also fall on carpets etc. and set them alight. After a chimney fire get an experienced builder to check for damage and repair chimney/fireplace as deemed necessary before using again these fires, therefore it is in your interest to ensure that your chimney is swept regularly you save nothing by not getting it done.