Our mission is to ensure everyone in Tyne and Wear is safe from fire. Fire prevention is crucial, and individuals with sensory impairments or mobility challenges may need to take extra precautions, as well as following advice for preventing fire at home.
Hearing Difficulties
If you are deaf or hard of hearing, consider installing a smoke alarm with a strobe light and vibrating pads to alert you in case of fire.
- If calling 999 is difficult, ask a trusted neighbour to assist in an emergency.
- If you use specialist equipment like a textphone or mini-com, you can contact emergency services at 18000.
Sight Difficulties
If you have sight difficulties, the following precautions can help:
- Place a coloured sticker on your smoke alarm to make it easier to locate and test.
- Regularly check electrical leads by touch before plugging in or switching on; avoid using if they feel damaged.
- If an appliance emits a burning smell, turn it off and unplug it immediately.
Mobility Difficulties
If you have mobility difficulties, take steps to enhance your safety:
- If you find it hard to test your smoke alarm, ask someone to help.
- Install an intercom system to alert someone in your home in case of an emergency.
- Ensure easy access to mobility aids like walking sticks or wheelchairs at all times.
Access to 999
Many people in the UK are unable to call 999 due to hearing or speech impairments. Fortunately, alternative methods are available…