Frequently Asked Questions

What does STOP Fire mean?

STOP Fire is an easy way to remember the best steps for fire safety at home.

STOP stands for:

• S – is for Smoke alarms. Make sure you have at least one on every level/floor.
• T – is for Test your smoke alarms weekly or ask someone to check it for you.
• O – is for Obvious dangers. Look out for fire risks like overloaded sockets, candles and unattended appliances.
• P – is for Plan your escape route. Keep access routes clear and have your keys at the ready.

How do I do a fire safety check?

Look for obvious dangers. A “Routine Fire Safety Check” should only take a couple of minutes but it could mean the difference between Life and Death.

Walk around your house with a view to keeping your home safe and secure.

• Unplug all unnecessary electrical appliances.
• Turn off all unnecessary gas appliances.
• Make sure all candles and naked flames are extinguished.
• Place a sparkguard in front of any open fire.
• Empty all ashtrays.
• Are all escape routes completely clear of obstructions?
  Close all doors to reduce the spread of fire and smoke.

How many smoke alarms do I need?

• For maximum protection one smoke alarm per room except the bathroom, kitchen and garage. Heat alarms may be considered where fumes from cooking or smoke from cigarettes or open fires could lead to unwanted alarm activations.
• For minimum protection one smoke alarm for each level/floor of your home.

When is Fire Safety Week?

National Fire Safety Week is run jointly with the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service and is about enhancing fire safety, particularly in the home.

National Fire Safety Week has its roots in the Great Chicago Fire, which occurred on October 8, 1871. The former American President, Calvin Coolidge, proclaimed the first National Fire Prevention Week in 1925 in memory of those who perished in that Fire. Since then, in early October, it has been observed each year in countries around the world.

This year Fire Safety Week is 9th – 15th October 2023.