As manufacturers of wood-burning stoves and gas and electric fires, we are very aware of the importance that fire safety plays in a home. Every year, fires ruin many homes in the UK, causing loss of life and property damage, not to mention serious financial implications.
What causes fires in homes?
Below is a list of things which can cause a fire in a home – by taking simple precautions the associated fire risks can be significantly reduced.
Electrical issues – overloaded power outlets, faulty or old wiring and damaged cords.
Cooking – Unattended pans, grease fires from overheating oil, Flammable materials near flames, Fryers catching fire.
Space heaters – Heates too close to ignitable objects, congested chimneys and poorly serviced gas or electric appliances.
With proper fireproofing measures in place, you can significantly reduce the risk of fire and improve the safety of your home. Here are a few pointers to help you, some of which should already be implemented in your home, but others may not be.
Fire Resistant Materials
When renovating your home, be aware of fire-resistant materials.
Exterior Walls: Use materials such as brick, stone, stucco, or fiber-cement siding, which resist fire better than wood.
Roofing: Metal, clay tiles, and asphalt shingles with Class A fire ratings are the safest options.
Windows: Double-pane or tempered glass windows offer better resistance against heat and flames than single-pane glass.
Doors: Solid-core wooden or metal doors provide a stronger barrier against fire.
Defensible space around your home
It’s not just the inside of your home you need to consider. Creating a defensible space around your property can help prevent fire from spreading should the worse happen:
Zone 1 (0-5 feet from your home): Keep this area free of flammable vegetation and materials.
Zone 2 (5-30 feet): Reduce the density of trees and bushes, and space them appropriately.
Zone 3 (30-100 feet): Maintain a well-managed landscape with fire-resistant plants and ensure proper clearance of dry grass and debris.
Your Interior
Install Smoke Alarms & Fire Extinguishers: Place smoke alarms in key areas and check them regularly.
Fire-Retardant Furniture & Curtains: Choose materials treated with fire-retardant chemicals.
Safe Storage of Flammable Materials: Keep paints, chemicals, and propane away from heat sources.
Electrical Safety: Regularly inspect wiring, avoid overloading outlets, and use surge protectors.
Stove specific requirements
Installation of wood-burning stoves must adhere to UK Building Regulations, particularly Approved Document J, which covers combustion appliances and fuel storage systems. Key considerations include:
Hearth Specifications: The stove must be installed on a non-combustible hearth (the floor of a fireplace). If the stove heats the hearth above 100°C or hasn’t been tested, the hearth should be at least 250mm thick.
Clearances: Maintain specified distances between the stove and any combustible materials, as outlined by the manufacturer. This is crucial to prevent heat damage or fire hazards.
Chimney and Flue Systems: Ensure the chimney is suitable for the stove and complies with regulations regarding height, diameter, and lining. A properly installed flue system is essential for safe operation.
Professional Installation: It’s recommended to have the stove installed by a HETAS-registered installer. HETAS is the official body for solid fuel appliances in the UK, and their registered installers can self-certify their work, ensuring compliance with regulations.
Smoke Control Areas: Many urban areas in the UK are designated as smoke control areas. In these zones, only Defra-exempt appliances and approved fuels are permitted. Operating a non-compliant stove or using unapproved fuel in these areas can result in fines of up to £1,000.
Whether you’re a stove owner or not, being fire-aware in and around your home is of vital importance.
