Fire safety
Your safety is our number one priority and we are committed to working with customers to maintain our high standards. If you have concerns about fire and building safety it is important to report them to us.
Fire precautions and what to do in an emergency
There are things everyone should do to help reduce the risk of fires. It’s important to know what to do if a fire does happen.
For more advice visit West Midlands Fire Service or the local fire service website for your area.
Test your smoke alarm weekly
A working fire alarm could save your life
Know your escape route
How would you get out if a fire happened?
Do not block or store things on escape routes
People need to be able to leave as quickly as possible
Keep fire doors closed and check they are working
Help stop the spread of fire
Do not store flammable items on balconies
If you have one
Building safety in flat blocks
Fire safety FAQs for blocks
What does “stay put stay safe” mean?
“Stay put stay safe” means that if there is a fire in your block you should stay put as long as you think it is safe to do so, or you are instructed by the Fire Service to leave. However, if you can smell smoke or see a fire, you should get out and stay out.
I live in a block. What should I do if there is a fire?
- If you are in your flat and believe there is a fire elsewhere in the building, you should stay put for as long as it is safe to do so, unless you are instructed to leave by the fire service. If you can smell smoke or see a fire, you should get out and stay out.
- If you discover a fire in your flat, get everyone in your flat to leave, closing any fire doors. Stay out of your flat and go to a safe space away from the building. Do not use the lifts. Once it is safe to do so call the fire service on 999.
- If you are in a communal area and believe there is a fire, you should get out, stay out, and call the fire service on 999.
- If you feel unsafe for any reason, make your way out the building. Follow the fire escape signs and close all doors behind you. Do not use the lift.
What are my responsibilities regarding fire safety?
The Fire Safety Act says that residents of individual properties in multi-occupied buildings, have a legal responsibility for keeping fire doors closed and making sure that self-closing devices and the door is not tampered.
How often do you carry out building safety checks on my block?
We carry out regular cyclical checks, tests and assessments on the key safety systems within your home and building. These will include:
- Visits by the Neighbourhood Impact Officers
- Quarterly communal fire door and annual flat entrance door inspections
- Fire alarms, lifts and emergency lighting.
How do I check my fire door?
It’s important to check your fire door regularly:
- Check for signs of damage to either side of the door, the frame and hinges as well as the overhead closing device. Where you have seals installed on your door check these are free from damage.
- Open your door and fully release it. The door should shut fully into the doorframe without you having to shut it.
Why are fire doors important?
Fire doors help to prevent fire and smoke from spreading into other areas of a building and onto escape routes.
What do I do if I think a fire door is damaged?
You can report any damaged fire doors to us on 0300 555 6666.
Who is responsible for landlord health and safety at whg?
whg has a designated landlord health and safety lead. You can find the full details in our Responsible Persons statement. Click here to view.
