PAP Group · · Fire safety · 2 min read
Fire safety in homes
Every home needs to pay attention to fire safety by making sure smoke alarms work, having suitable extinguishing equipment at hand and being prepared to act in an emergency. Now that it is autumn, it is a good time for everyone to check fire safety in their own home.
Smoke alarms and portable fire extinguishers on sale must meet certain requirements. Remember to take good care of your fire extinguisher so that it is sure to work when needed. Tukes maintains registers of, for example, approved fire extinguisher servicing companies and companies that install and maintain extinguishing systems.
About smoke alarms
As recommended by SPEK, the Finnish National Rescue Association, smoke alarms should be placed in all bedrooms and in the hallway, and on upper floors also above the stairs in addition to the bedrooms. Each floor must have at least one working smoke alarm for every 60 square metres or part thereof. Make sure the smoke alarms have a working battery. Smoke alarms must be tested monthly by pressing the test button. Replace the smoke alarm with a new one in line with the service life stated by the manufacturer. Only a working smoke alarm warns you of a fire starting and gives you time to escape and call for help.
Escape routes
Every resident must know the home’s escape routes in the event of a fire. The normal exit route can be used if the fire is not along the route. If escape that way is not possible, family members must know the alternative escape routes.
Escape routes must also be kept clear, because there is very little time to escape – only two or three minutes. Also agree on a shared meeting point. That way you can see that everyone has reached safety.
First-aid firefighting equipment
Get enough fire blankets and portable fire extinguishers for your home. Place them so that they are easy to reach, and learn how to use them. Put out a starting fire if you can, but do not put your own safety at risk.
About electrical appliances
Take care in using and maintaining electrical appliances. Thrift is no virtue when it comes to faulty electronics. Do not use a broken electrical appliance; repair it or replace it with a new one as soon as the fault appears.
Burning candles and outdoor candles
Only burn candles on a stable, non-combustible surface at a sufficient distance from other objects. Leave enough space between candles. Never leave a burning candle unattended. If a candle flame flares up, put it out by smothering it. Place outdoor candles at least 3–5 metres from combustible material, including the eaves, and secure them well.
See also: Fire safety at the summer cottage, Responsibility for smoke alarms moves from residents to housing companies, Smoke alarms and fire alarm systems in a housing company and Fire Safety Week 27 November – 3 December 2021.
(Sources: Finnish National Rescue Association SPEK: Jokakodin paloturvallisuus (‘Fire safety in every home’) and Suomen Kiinteistölehti: fire safety (in Finnish))
