Norfolk residents are being reminded of the importance of home safety and fire prevention by the county’s fire and rescue service.

The advice comes as community safety officers continue to visit Norfolk’s mid-rise flats and reassure residents about the safety of their homes following the Grenfell Tower fire in London.

Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service is continuing to work with partners including district councils, housing associations and Norfolk County Council’s Trading Standards Team to speak to people about any concerns they have relating to the safety of their homes.
The continuing public reassurance work follows operational checks to the cladding on all Norfolk’s high-rise buildings.

Garry Collins, Head of Fire Protection and Prevention, said: “Thankfully, fires such as that in Grenfell Tower are extremely rare. We would urge the public to take some simple home safety measures to ensure that they remain safe in their homes and reduce the risk of fire. We do also offer Home Fire Safety visits where we discuss potential fire hazards and importantly the actions required to keep everyone safe.”

Residents should:
• Not leave candles unattended
• Avoid overloading electrical sockets
• Take care when cooking and never leave a stove unattended
• Test smoke alarms every week and change the battery once a year
• Never smoke in bed
• Always use proper ashtrays
• Keep matches and lighters out of children’s reach
• Put at least one smoke alarm on each floor of your home
• Be aware of fire evacuation guidance for their building if living in flats
• Keep exits clear of obstructions

Remember that if a fire occurs in your home, get out and call 999 – closing doors behind you.

Members of the public can call Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service on 0800 917 8137 to arrange for a free Home Fire Risk Check.