Keeping your smoke alarms in good working order protects you and your family against fire. However, it is just too easy to forget this crucial test. Safelincs can offer to help you by reminding you via email, and at your chosen frequency, to test your smoke alarm regularly. For tips on testing your smoke alarm, visit the Safelincs website (opens in a new window).

The provision of smoke alarms and other home safety items by Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service is supported by funding from Welsh Government.

What To Do In An Emergency

  • If your smoke alarm goes off while you are asleep, don't investigate to see if there is a fire. Shout to wake everyone up, get everyone together, follow your plan and get out.
  • Check doors with the back of your hand - if they are warm, do not open them - the fire is on the other side.
  • If there is a lot of smoke, crawl along with your nose near the floor where the air will be cleaner.
  • The best way to escape from your property is using the normal routes – it is important that you make sure that all landings, stairs and corridors leading to both the front and back doors are kept clear of anything that would slow you down, or trip you up if you were trying to get out in a hurry
  • Call 999 for the Fire and Rescue Service from a mobile phone, a neighbour's house or a phone box. Give the address of the fire.
  • Don't stop or go back for anything.
  • Get everyone into one room and close the door. Smoke and fumes can kill people quickly, so put bedding or towels along the bottom of the door to seal the gap.
  • Open the window and stay near it for fresh air and to let the firefighters see you.
  • If you have to break a window, cover the jagged glass with towels or thick bedding.
  • Don't jump out of a window - lower yourself down to arm's length and drop to the ground.
  • If you have any children or elderly or disabled people with you, plan the order you will escape in so that you can help them down.​
  • Phone 999 for the Fire and Rescue Service or shout for help so that someone can phone for you.

Remember a having a fire action plan is not just about how to get out, but about how to prevent fires starting in the first place. Take some time to make your fire action plan today, it could well save your life.