Guidance

Fire safety for Gypsies and Travellers (accessible)

Updated 25 May 2022

Applies to England

Did you know?

Two fires a day are started by candles.

Every six days someone dies from a fire caused by a cigarette.

These tips will help keep you and your family safe from fire.

If there’s a fire

If there’s a fire - get out, stay out and call 999.

Make sure you can get out of the window if needed.

Smoke alarms save lives

Fit a smoke alarm.

Local fire and rescue services may fit smoke alarms.

Test it at least monthly.

Don’t remove the batteries.

Carbon monoxide

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a poisonous gas that can kill you

Keep air vents clear.

Fit a carbon monoxide (CO) detector.

Electrics

Don’t run electrics from one van to another.

Don’t overload.

Using an adaptor with a lead is safer.

Heaters

Don’t dry clothes on or right next to the heater.

Make sure heaters work properly.

Use a Gas Safe engineer to fix gas heaters.

Indoor risks

Avoid leaving lit candles unattended. Make sure they are in a secure holder.

Smoking inside can be dangerous, smoke outside instead.

Keep matches and lighters out of children’s reach.

Take extra care when cooking with hot oil.

Keep pan handles out of children’s reach.

Outdoor safety

Try to keep trailers six meters apart (that’s roughly the length of three people standing in a line with their arms held out).

Don’t store fuel under your home.

Turn off gas canisters when not in use.

When not in use fuel should ideally be stored six meters away.

Keep fuel away from heat when not in use.

When in use, keep upright and secure.

Don’t let gas leak.

Do not smoke near gas.

For advice specific to you and your home, complete your own home fire safety check.