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Mae'r wefan hon ar gael yn y Gymraeg
Dewis
Health and Wellbeing
A Health and Well-being Wales Partner

Fires start suddenly, spread quickly and put lives in danger.

The best thing to do is avoid them starting in the first place. Open fires, portable heaters, candles, chip pans and cigarettes are all major causes of fires. Old and badly maintained electrical equipment and overloaded sockets are also potential hazards. It goes without saying that you should always keep matches and lighters out of reach of children.

If the worst does happen and a fire starts, never attempt to tackle it yourself. Make sure everyone gets out of the building quickly and call the fire service on 999.

Smoke alarms and home safety checks

Statistics show you are six times more likely to die from a fire in your home if you don’t have a smoke alarm fitted.

Don’t take the risk. Wherever you live in Wales, your local fire service carry out a free home fire safety check. You may also be eligible for a free fire alarm.

During the visit, which takes about twenty minutes and can be arranged at your convenience, fully trained fire and rescue staff (who always carry an identification card) will:

  • support and install a free, potentially lifesaving, smoke detector or ensure existing alarms are working
  • provide advice on how to make your home safe from fire
  • help you prepare an escape plan to help you make your way out of the property in the event of a fire
  • provide specialised equipment for deaf and hard of hearing people
  • assess whether you are at high risk and may benefit from specialist equipment to keep you safe

Call: 0800 169 1234, to arrange your home safety visit.

To book online - or find out more about fire safety in the home - visit your local fire service website:

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service

North Wales Fire and Rescue Service

Protecting you from arson

While the majority of arsonists target empty buildings, e.g. abandoned warehouses or schools, there are some perpetrators who are prepared to put lives at risk and set fire to someone’s home.

If you fall into a specific vulnerable group, e.g. you are a victim of domestic abuse or hate crime, you might consider having a metal letterbox fitted for your own peace of mind. These contain most burning materials (including fireworks) by cutting off the oxygen support.

For more information contact your local fire and rescue service:

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service - 0370 6060699 Online contact form

North Wales Fire and Rescue Service - 01745 535250 or complete an Online contact form

South Wales Fire Crime Unit - 01443 232000 Online contact form

Last updated: 03/05/2023

Find more well-being information at www.dewis.wales

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