As the festive period approaches, Hightown would like to wish all our residents a joyful and peaceful season.
During this special time of the year, we want to ensure everyone remains safe in their homes, especially as there can be additional hazards throughout the holidays.
With additional decorations, portable heaters and festive lighting, it’s important to stay mindful of potential risks. To help keep you and your family safe, we have put together a few key safety tips to guide you through the season:
- Test your fire alarm: This is the first and most important step to staying safe. Ensure all alarms in your home are working correctly.
- Avoid overloading electrical sockets: With many homes using extra lights and decorations, be mindful not to overload power outlets. Always turn off festive lights when you go to bed to reduce fire risk and lower your electricity bill.
- Keep decorations away from heat sources: Be cautious when placing Christmas decorations or cards near fires, light fittings or any other heat source.
- Candle safety: If you are using candles, ensure they are placed in holders and kept away from curtains or other flammable material. Always keep them out of reach of children.
- Be careful in the kitchen: Give yourself enough time to prepare and cook meals, especially Christmas dinner, to avoid kitchen accidents. Never leave cooking unattended and avoid mixing alcohol with cooking to reduce fire risks.
- Cigarette safety: Never smoke in bed. If you do smoke, ensure that all cigarettes are fully extinguished and disposed of safely.
E-Bike and E-Scooter
As the popularity of e-bikes and e-scooters grows, so too do the risks associated with charging them. The Fire Brigade has reported a significant increase in fires caused by rechargeable lithium-ion battery packs. To keep your home safe when safe charging e-bikes or scooters:
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions and always unplug the charger once the battery is fully charged.
- Only charge while you are awake and at home and avoid charging overnight.
- Use approved battery packs and chargers from reputable dealers.
- Regularly inspect your battery from damage or wear.
- Never cover the battery or charger while charging, as this could lead to overheating.
- Do not store or charge e-bikes or scooters in communal areas.
Finally, make sure you know the location of your fire exits. If you have any concerns, you can contact Hightown’s Property Services, Building Safety or Housing teams.
Hightown offers various ways for our residents to stay involved with building safety matters:
- Hightown's Property Services Team: PropertyServicesTeam@hightownha.org.uk
- Hightown's Building Safety Team: building.safety@hightownha.org.uk
- Hightown's Housing Team: housing.services@hightownha.org.uk
- Participate in estate walks or attend drop-in sessions held throughout the year, as advertised on the Hightown website
- Join our summer event days, also advertised on the Hightown website
- Use the Online Web Portal https://myaccount.hightownha.org.uk
- Submit feedback via the Website Form https://www.hightownha.org.uk/contact-us/compliments-complaints-and-feedback
Stay safe and enjoy the festive season.