Fire safety for carers.

The help and advice you need to keep vulnerable people safe

Whether you help a loved one maintain their independence or spend your working days caring for others, we're here to support you.

Why it matters

A third of the people that die in fires every year are looked after by a carer, whether that is a family member, friend or a professional carer. We believe that by working together, we can reduce fire deaths and injuries of vulnerable people.

People who need extra consideration

Older people, people with disabilities, people with visual and hearing impairments, and people who are vulnerable for other reasons all need careful consideration when it comes to fire safety. There are 4 main reasons why: 

1. They may not be able respond to a fire as quickly.
2. They may not be able to escape a fire. 
3. They may be more at risk due to lifestyle factors. 
4. They may use healthcare equipment such as oxygen or emollient creams that are flammable.

So what do you need to know to give the best possible care?

• Be aware of the risks
• Know what you need to do
• Take action 
• Know where to go for help

Explore advice for carers and support workers

Use the quick links below to skip to the section you're most interested in.

• Fire risk checklist
• Ability to respond and escape
• Caring for smokers
• Specialist health equipment
• Emollient creams
• Hoarding disorder
• Specialist alarms
• Sprinklers

It's also worth downloading the fire safety at home booklet at the bottom of this page.