What to do if my Carbon Monoxide alarm goes off?

Tuesday 19th March 2024

CO detectors, or carbon monoxide alarms, are essential for the detection of a deadly gas, carbon monoxide (CO). This gas cannot be seen, tasted or smelt and is only detected with the use of co detectors. It is produced through the incomplete combustion of fuel, such as gas, wood, coal and oil. If your carbon monoxide alarm is going off, do not assume it is a false alarm.

What to do when your carbon monoxide alarm is going off

You should assume that there is CO present and should follow these steps to ensure your safety.

Stay calm, open doors and windows to increase ventilation
Where safe to do so, turn off any fuel-burning appliance
Leave the premises and notify other occupants of the potential carbon monoxide leak (you should also notify any occupant of premises adjoined to your home as CO can seep through walls and floors
Call Gas Emergency Services 0800 111 999 or a local Gas Safe Registered Engineer to check for the source of carbon monoxide
Get medical help for anyone suffering from symptoms of CO poisoning

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning

The main symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are:

Persistent Headaches

Having persistent dull headaches and tension type headaches.

Dizziness

Having waves of dizziness or feeling light headed and off balance.

Nausea / Vomiting

Feeling like you need to be sick (nausea) and actually being sick (vomiting).

Stomach Pains

Pains in your stomach or lower abdomen, sometimes accompanied by diarrhoea.

Difficulty Breathing

Sudden shortness of breath or difficulty breathing (dyspnoea).

Tiredness

Having no energy or feeling tired, sleepy, lethargic and sluggish.

Sudden Collapse

Sudden collapse, seizures or loss of consciousness.

Confusion

Confusion, difficulty concentrating and becoming easily irritated.

What causes CO detector false alarms?

A false alarm is when your CO detector alarms and where no carbon monoxide is detected by your engineer. There could be several reasons for this, which can often be easily resolved:

Cause of alarm	What to do
The carbon monoxide detected did not come from your own appliances but may have seeped through the walls or floor from a neighbour.	Check if your neighbours have fuel-burning appliances that might emit carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide might escape from chimney stacks allowing the toxic gas to enter your premises via a joint loft space.
The replace-by date may have been exceeded.	Most CO alarms are only effective for 5-10 years. Once expired, they can sound erratically, or not sound when they should, The expiry date for each unit can be found on the information sticker on the back of the unit.
Excessive moisture from a bathroom may set off your CO alarm.	CO alarms can be corrupted by steam, and therefore shouldn’t be installed in bathrooms. If your CO alarm is repeatedly triggered by steam, it may become ineffective, and should be replaced.
Lead acid battery chargers produce hydrogen gas which sets off CO detectors.	If you are charging your caravan or boat battery at home, this could set off your CO alarm. Once you have made sure that the alarm is false, it is safe to ignore the alarm in this scenario, but remain vigilant for other signs. If this happens often, invest in a CO alarm with a digital display to assess the level of risk when the alarm sounds.
Freshly screeded floors emit a gas that sets off carbon monoxide alarms.	If your floors have just been screeded, and you have made sure that the alarm is false, it is safe to ignore the alarm in this scenario, but remain vigilant for other signs.
The carbon monoxide alarm that you have installed may not be suitable for the type of premises	For example if it is installed in a caravan, tent, boat or living quarters of a horsebox you will need to ensure that your alarm is Kitemarked to BS EN50291-2. Alarms tested to BS EN50291-1 are only for use in home environments and are not suitable for camping and caravanning.
Smoking indoors	A heavy smoker in a poorly ventilated room the CO from smoking may trigger an alarm. It is recommended to open a window if possible to improve ventilation. If this happens often, invest in a CO alarm with a digital display to assess the level of risk when the alarm sounds.
Homes that are adjacent to very busy roads may experience higher levels of CO in the home when windows are open as traffic fumes may enter the room and set your alarm off.	If this causes persistent false alarms, invest in a digital CO alarm, allowing you to see a live CO reading. You can then determine the level of risk. For example, if the reading is high, there is probably a leak. However, if it has just tipped over the threshold due to air pollution, the alarm can be ignored/silenced without having to get an engineer in to check for a leak.
The sound that your alarm is making may not be the alarm sound to alert you that there are dangerous levels of CO present.	Most alarms have several audible sounds to indicate things such as low battery warning or that there is a fault with the alarm. Keep the manual safe so that you can refer to it should the alarm go off.

Buying a CO detector

You should have a carbon monoxide detector in every room where there is a solid fuel burning appliance. Only chose CO detectors that have met the rigorous testing standards of the European standard EN50291. These alarms provide peace of mind that this vital alarm has been manufactured and tested to the highest standards. Moreover, investing in a CO detector with a digital display also provides peace of mind, as it allows you to assess the situation when an alarm goes off. This is particularly useful if you have had persistent false alarms due to pollution, smoking, or other external factors, as it allows you to check the reading to assess the level of risk before calling an engineer to check for a leak.

For more information about taking a carbon monoxide detector on holiday, read our blog on this ultimate travel essential, and what to do if you detect a leak.

Kidde Carbon Monoxide Alarm - 7DCO / 7DCOC

Product Life: 10 years
Battery: replaceable AA alkaline batteries included
Warranty: 10 year warranty
Displays CO levels from 10ppm
Peak Level Memory - recalls highest CO levels
Ideal for domestic use and camping, caravans & boats
Kitemarked to BS EN50291-1 and BS EN50291-2
Also suitable for the 2022 Welsh legislation

£15.21 ex VAT

£18.25 inc VAT

Buy Now

If you are unsure if you have the correct carbon monoxide alarm installed our customer care team are here to help. You can call them on 0800 612 6537 or email support@safelincs.co.uk.

Angie Dewick-Eisele

Director

Angie Dewick-Eisele is co-founder of Safelincs Ltd, one of the leading fire safety providers in the UK. Angie was Marketing Manager for many years and as Director is these days responsible for Content Management.

Latest Posts by Angie Dewick-Eisele

Emergency Lighting Requirements1st August 2024
What to do if my Carbon Monoxide alarm goes off?19th March 2024
What is BAFE certification?28th March 2023

Managing False Alarms

Tuesday 19th March 2024

Managing false alarms is a public safety issue. As reported by the BBC, in 2020 the Chief Fire Officer (CFO) at Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue – Les Britzman – asked business owners to take more care and responsibility in managing false alarms. Provided that there are no hazardous materials in the premises and there is no immediate risk to life or the community, the CFO stated that organisations should “have systems in place to go and check those buildings themselves” before calling 999 if a fire is discovered.

Despite this, a National Statistics report shows that FRSs in the UK attended 246,529 fire false alarms in 2023. This was a 3.1% increase on the previous year, and a 6.3% increase on figures 5 years ago. Last year (2023) saw the largest number of false alarms attended since 2011. This diverts essential resources from real emergencies and puts people at risk due to avoidable blue light journeys.

Islington Fire Station, London. The station is part of the London Fire Brigade network of emergency responders.

Further to wasting public resources, management and mitigation of false alarms ensures that time is not wasted by needless evacuations. Unnecessary evacuations may cause downtime of machinery, and potentially a loss of earnings. If false alarms are allowed to persist, occupants may become desensitized to the sound. This puts lives at risk, as in a real emergency occupants may fail to react properly.

The importance of managing false alarms

BS 5839 Part 1, the Code of Practice for design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of fire alarm systems in non-domestic premises, has a focus on managing false alarms. Therefore, managing fire alarms is recommended for organisations to demonstrate that they are acting responsibly to prevent fires. To achieve this, the Responsible Person must ensure that all false alarms on a system are logged. Each false alarm must also be investigated for a root cause, which must be addressed. Mitigating work must be undertaken as necessary to prevent the same incident occurring again. To learn more about this Standard, see our summary of BS 5839-1: 2017.

Should a real fire occur, documentation including a record of, and mitigation work following past false alarms will be required during the investigation. The maintenance of these records is not a legal requirement. However, correct documentation can prevent prosecutions of negligence. It is also highly likely that insurers will require these records when processing a claim.

How to prevent false alarms

Preventing false alarms can be as simple as fitting flip covers to manual call points to prevent accidental activations. Indeed, this is now a recommendation in the Standard, though not a requirement. However, if a false alarm occurred because a manual call point was accidently triggered, the need to mitigate against repeat occurrences may necessitate their installation.

Fire Alarm System Testing & Maintenance — Functional testing of point smoke detectors with a Solo aerosol dispenser and access pole.

Another fundamental part of managing false alarms in existing fire alarm systems is to ensure they are maintained. This includes regular testing, inspections, and servicing. This will reduce the risks of false alarms caused by faulty or improperly installed equipment, as well as ensuring that the system is effective in an emergency.

Premises with a change of use should be professionally inspected to identify whether the existing fire alarm system remains suitable. For example, replacing optical beam detectors with a system of point heat detectors would prevent false alarms in a storage warehouse that has been converted into a factory with machinery that creates a lot of dust.

Optimising new fire alarm systems

For new fire alarm systems, during the design stage the full details of the Fire Risk Assessment, the building, and its intended / current use should be made available. This ensures that the most suitable types of detector can be selected, and positioned in the correct way. Suitable detectors in the correct locations are one of the easiest methods for managing false alarms. For example, installing an optical smoke detector near kitchens or bathrooms could result in false alarms due to steam from cooking or baths and showers.

Identifying design shortcomings is not generally the responsibility of an installer. However, the Standard does state that any issues noticed during installation – particularly those arising from features of the building that might not have been known to the designer – should be brought to the attention of the designer or Responsible Person.

Fire Risk Assessments must be kept up to date and carried out by a competent person. — Fire alarm systems should be tailored to the building. It should account for the risks identified in the building’s fire risk assessment.

False alarms put unnecessary strain on UK fire services, diverting essential resources away from real fires, and putting lives at risk. Managing false alarms is in the interest of organisations as it prevents disruption.

Safelincs provide nationwide fire alarm system servicing and maintenance contracts at competitive pricing. View our Servicing and Maintenance page or call our Servicing team on 0800 612 4827 for more information.

Daniel Bennett

Compliance and Data Analyst

Daniel is our Senior Product Manager. He has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to emergency lighting, fire alarms, smart products, and fire extinguishers.

Latest Posts by Daniel Bennett

Managing False Alarms19th March 2024

Reasonable Adjustments in Schools

Thursday 14th March 2024

According to the Equality Act 2010, schools and educational premises have a duty to make reasonable adjustments where necessary for anyone with a disability. So, what is a reasonable adjustment in schools? And, what can schools and universities do to improve access for all and meet fire safety requirements in education?

What is a reasonable adjustment?

The Equality Act 2010 tackles disability discrimination in schools and other organisations or businesses across society. It sets out a responsibility to remove barriers experienced by someone who has a disability. Anyone who has a disability should be able to receive the same service as far as possible as someone who is not disabled. What is considered a ‘reasonable’ adjustment will depend on things like the size of the organisation, and the money and resources available. It will also depend on the needs of the individuals who attend the setting.

Reasonable adjustments and fire safety in education

According to current fire safety regulations, it is the duty of the Responsible Person for the building to provide a fire safety risk assessment that considers the needs of all of its users. It should contain an emergency evacuation plan for all people likely to be on the educational premises. This includes anyone who is disabled or has additional needs. The Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (DDA) also supports these regulations.

Evacuation chairs are a reasonable adjustment — An EVAC+CHAIR can be used to safely evacuate anyone with a permanent or temporary mobility impairment in an emergency

The reasonable adjustments in schools need to meet legal requirements for disability and fire safety, and depends on what is set out in your fire risk assessment. It will also depend on the needs of the individuals who attend your school or university.

What examples are there of reasonable adjustments in schools or higher education establishments for fire safety?

A reasonable adjustment can be:

A change to the way things are done such as a change to a rule or policy. For example, this might involve a change to an escape route.
A change to a physical or architectural feature in a building or outside areas. This could include using a fire door retainer on internal fire doors to allow easier access for all or installing visual fire alarm beacons with louder audible sirens for anyone who has a hearing impairment.
Provision of extra services or aids. This could include providing an evacuation aid such as an evacuation chair.

The type of changes and extra aids or services will depend entirely on your circumstances and the needs of the individuals who attend your school or university. Fire safety requirements will be set out in detail in your fire risk assessment and should be implemented.

Fire door retainers and the Equality Act 2010

Fire door retainers such as Dorgard are a cost-effective and easy to install solution for improving access for all in schools and universities. Fire doors are a necessity in many buildings but can be a barrier to anyone with a mobility impairment as they are heavy to operate and difficult to manoeuvre in a wheelchair.

fire doors in education — Fire door retainers can improve access for anyone with a mobility impairment

Dorgard is certified and tested to British Standards EN1155:1997 and EN 1634. It is a legal solution for holding open fire doors. This allows easier access for everyone including any disabled users with a mobility impairment. When the fire alarm sounds in your building, Dorgard will release the fire door so that it closes and provides the usual protection. You should never wedge or prop open fire doors using an uncertified device or object. The fire doors will be unable to provide any protection if they are open when a fire starts.

Fire door retainers can be a reasonable adjustment — Dorgard Fire Door Retainers are widely used in education

The University of London’s College Hall has found Dorgard to be an effective solution to accessibility in their building.

“The Dorgard offers a low energy automatic door solution that proved to be the most cost-effective way of improving access and independence for wheelchair users.”
University of London’s College Hall

Mel Saunders

Head of Marketing

With over 20 years of experience in content writing, design and marketing, Mel now heads up the Content & Marketing Team at Safelincs. Having been in the fire safety industry for over 5 years, Mel has now developed a deep understanding of some of the critical issues facing the industry. Alongside her team, she aims to support the public with resources and information to help them improve fire safety at home, in the workplace or in 3rd sector organisations.

Latest Posts by Mel Saunders

Maintained or Non-Maintained Emergency Lighting?7th June 2024
Reasonable Adjustments in Schools14th March 2024
Why is my smoke alarm beeping?13th December 2023

Everything you need to know about cooking oil fires

Friday 1st March 2024

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), cooking equipment is the leading cause of house fires, with unattended cooking being the primary culprit. Cooking oil fires, in particular, pose a unique challenge due to the intensity and rapid spread of the flames.

Cooking oil fires are difficult to extinguish if you don’t have the right equipment at hand. The powerful jet of some fire extinguishers could spread the oil fire. Using water to extinguisher oil fires can cause the fire to erupt violently. Therefore, it is important to have the correct equipment to tackle kitchen fires

Tackling Cooking Oil Fires at Home

How to put out a Cooking Oil Fire

Pan fires can be tackled with fire blankets and fire extinguishers. A water mist fire extinguisher is versatile, and therefore can tackle all types of kitchen fire including fires involving electrical equipment up to 1000 volts. A fire blanket is a good option for most domestic kitchens, as generally smaller amounts of oil are used. A fire blanket is placed over the pan fire to smother it and starve the fire from oxygen.

For larger deep fat fryers in your home, we would recommend a wet chemical fire extinguisher which holds a 25F rating. The wet chemical extinguisher is made specifically for tackling larger quantities of oil on fire.

Where to put a Kitchen Fire Extinguisher

In the case of cooking oil fires, having a fire extinguisher within easy reach can be a lifesaver. Mount the extinguisher in a visible and easily accessible location, away from the stove but still within close proximity to the cooking area. We recommend placing your fire extinguisher near the kitchen exit, ensuring a quick and unobstructed path to safety. Avoid placing it too close to potential fire hazards, such as curtains or wooden cabinets.

Tackling Cooking Oil Fires at Work

If you work in a commercial kitchen with deep fat fryers, a wet chemical kitchen fire extinguisher is usually recommended. Wet chemical fire extinguishers are specifically designed to put out cooking oil fires and therefore should be kept in kitchens for commercial use. The wet chemical fire extinguisher forms a foam blanket on top of the oil which stops the supply of oxygen, therefore extinguishing the fire. Fire blankets are also a useful addition in a commercial kitchen as they can be used on pan fires, cooking oil fires, waste basket fires and also clothing fires.

What to do in a Kitchen Fire

Stay calm
Turn off the heat source (if possible)
If the fire is not too big, use your fire extinguisher or fire blanket to try and extinguish the fire
Call emergency services
Move anything else that could catch fire away from the burning oil if you can
Make sure children and pets do not come near the fire

How can Cooking Oil Fires be Prevented?

To avoid cooking oil fires, never leave cooking unattended and pay attention to cooking pans and deep fat fryers at all times, especially when cooking with oil. Keep the area clean from grease buildup, as accumulated grease can be a potential fuel source for fires. In the event of a small grease fire, never use water to extinguish it. Instead, cover the pan with a fire blanket or use a fire extinguisher for kitchen fires. By adopting these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of cooking oil fires and enhance the overall safety of your kitchen.

For further advice on fire prevention in your home, complete the Home Fire Safety Check. Get personalised tips and a fire safety action plan to help you and your family to stay safe.

Why are fire drills important?

Friday 1st March 2024

Conducting regular fire drills in the workplace is essential in order to practice for a safe evacuation during a fire. Fire drills go beyond compliance with regulations; they are the heartbeat of safety culture within organisations. Not only do they ensure that all staff, customers and visitors to your premises understand what they need to do if there is a fire, but they also help you to test how effective your fire evacuation procedure is.

What is a fire drill?

A fire drill is an organised procedure to simulate the steps you should take in the event of a fire. Its primary function is to ensure that all individuals in the building are familiar with escape routes, emergency exits and safety protocols. A fire drill educates and prepares occupants for a swift evacuation in the event of a real fire. A fire drill usually involves sounding the alarm system, evacuation to designated assembly points and coordination with emergency responders.

Regularly practicing fire drills enhances your readiness and response in the event of a real fire, which contribute to a safer environment for everyone involved.

Life or death

Imagine a fire starts. The company does not conduct regular fire drills. Everyone is panicking and doesn’t know what to do as part of the fire evacuation procedure. However, an organisation or even a household that conducts regular fire drills remains calm. Instinct kicks in from the fire drill practice to follow the fire evacuation procedure. This can be the difference between life and death.

Why should I do fire drills?

Be prepared in the event of a fire
Familiarity with evacuation routes
Test emergency systems
Calm response in the event of a fire
Identify weaknesses in fire evacuation procedure
Builds a ‘safety-first’ culture
Strive for continuous improvement
Comply with regulations

‘You need to train new staff when they start work and tell all employees about any new fire risks.

You should carry out at least one fire drill per year and record the results. You must keep the results as part of your fire safety and evacuation plan.’ GOV UK

Testing Safety Equipment

Your fire drill not only gives people a routine to ensure their safety, it also gives you the opportunity to make sure essential fire safety equipment is in working order. Fire safety equipment includes alarm systems, fire door retainers, emergency lighting and evacuation equipment. In the event of a real emergency, all fire safety equipment must be working to evacuate timely and to prevent the spread of fire.

If, while undergoing a fire drill, you find that your fire safety equipment isn’t working; get it fixed or replaced as soon as possible to give your business the best chance of being protected.

How often should you do fire drills?

Yearly fire drills are a legal requirement for all businesses. However, Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recommends having a few fire drills each year to enhance safety measures and better prepare for potential emergencies. While the minimum legal standard is an annual fire drill, more frequent exercises, such as quarterly or semi-annual drills, can significantly improve the effectiveness of emergency response plans.

Fire Drill Roles & Responsibilities

Designating key roles to individuals during your fire drills helps streamline the evacuation. Fire Wardens oversee the evacuation process and check designated areas, while Evacuation Marshals are responsible for guiding people to safety. Someone should also be assigned to account for all individuals at the assembly points to ensure that everyone has safely evacuated the building. Clearly defining roles and responsibilities in advance ensures confidence in individuals that there is a well-coordinated plan in place.

What are COSHH regulations?

Tuesday 6th February 2024

COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) regulations were put in place to protect workers from poor health in the workplace. Many materials and substances used in the workplace can be harmful to human health and therefore it is important to limit the exposure. COSHH regulations require employers to identify harmful substances in the workplace and put measures in place to protect employees.

What are COSHH hazardous substances?

COSHH covers the different forms of hazardous substances; liquids, dusts, gases, vapours, mists and fumes. COSHH substances can cause problems to human health causing issues such as such as skin damage, asthma, lung damage, cancer and more. Effects such as stinging or dizziness when exposed to COSHH substances can be immediate. However, some can take years to develop like lung disease.

In the workplace you can often be exposed to different forms of hazardous substances without even knowing. Here’s a few to look out for:

Liquids – Found in cleaning products, fuels, pesticides, processed chemicals, liquified gases

Dusts – Found in wood, concrete, bricks, glass, grains, flour

Gases – Make sure you know what gases you’re dealing with before using them. There are a wide range of gases that are harmful in different ways

Vapours – Solvent vapours released from adhesives, glues, paints, inks

Mists – Released from sprays, jets, hand dispensers

Fumes – Created from heating a solid, e.g created when welding. Strong and strict control measures around the extraction of the potentially harmful fumes

What are the COSHH hazard classes?

COSHH symbols are used to identify the COSHH hazard classes. COSHH symbols relate to specific types of harm that can occur from harmful materials or substances, and there are 9 official COSHH symbols in total; corrosive, harmful, explosive, flammable, irritant, oxidising, toxic, health hazard and environmental hazard. Most products have COSHH symbols on their packaging to inform users if the material or substance is harmful. Here are the symbols:

What is a COSHH regulations assessment?

It’s the employer’s responsibility to perform a COSHH Assessment to understand the level of risk that exists within the workplace. The COSHH Assessment includes a review of hazardous properties, looking at how they are used and identifying any control measures needed to prevent harm to health. It’s the employers responsibility to ensure COSHH regulations and prevention processes are being followed.

Assess the risks

Think about how workers might be exposed, who might be exposed, how to control the risks, who needs to carry out the action and when the action is needed.

Control the risks

Eliminate unnecessary substances or replace substances where a safer alternative is available and consider whether a process can be changed to so it results in less exposure. If a substance is not directly replaceable, adequate control measures must be put in place to reduce exposure.

Training and educating staff about any risks to health from hazardous substances is critical. Hanging a COSHH poster in the workplace to show a clear list of hazard symbols for staff to familiarise themselves with is a good way to raise awareness.

As the employer, it is your responsibility to ensure that workers understand the policies around COSHH regulations and what it means for them. This may include which hazards are present, necessary training and how the risks are being controlled.

Is Your Home Gas Safe?

Thursday 25th January 2024

Gas boilers, heaters, fires and cookers are common in households across the UK. However, many people are unaware of the dangers of poor maintenance of this type of appliance. Is your home gas safe?

Dangerous gas appliances

Faulty gas appliances can produce toxic carbon monoxide gas as a result of incomplete combustion. Carbon monoxide is odourless and colourless meaning that without a detector, its presence cannot be identified. Even if your gas burning appliances are regularly serviced by a qualified engineer, it is possible for faults to occur. Alongside maintaining household appliances, the best way to keep your home gas safe is to install a CO alarm.

Carbon Monoxide emissions from a poorly fitted, poorly ventilated or faulty gas appliance can be deadly. On average, 50 people in the UK are killed each year by CO poisoning, with 4,000 admitted to hospital. There are also an unknown number of people who have suffered some degree of carbon monoxide poisoning, and either do not report it or are mis-diagnosed as the symptoms are very similar to common flu.

Dangers of unqualified gas fitters

The Gas Safe Register has highlighted the dangers of unqualified fitters, reporting that when inspected by a registered Gas Safe Engineer, 79% of boilers originally installed by unqualified fitters are putting occupants at risk, or are classified as immediately dangerous. Similar statistics published by Gas Safety Week show that half of all gas fires inspected by a registered Gas Safe Engineer are unsafe.

The Gas Safe Register logo is recognisable

Maintaining gas appliances

If you have a gas appliance, you should have it serviced every year. Always ensure that repairs or new installations are only carried out by a qualified and registered Gas Safe Engineer. Regular servicing is the best way to prevent faults, and keep your family safe from deadly CO gas. Check to see if loved ones and vulnerable friends or neighbours have an up to date gas safety certificate.

Remember to check whether the engineer in your home appears on the gas safety register before allowing them to start work. — Only registered Gas Safe engineers should service the gas burning appliances in your home

The Gas Safety watch dog is urging consumers to always check the credentials of any gas fitter. This should always be done before allowing them to do any work on a gas appliance. They are also asking the public to inform them of any rogue installers who are claiming to be qualified, but do not appear on the Gas Safety Register.

Get gas safe – Importance of installing CO alarms

You should always install a carbon monoxide alarm to protect your household from the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, especially because carbon monoxide can travel through adjoining walls. Therefore, even if you don’t have any gas appliances, or are certain that every appliance in your home is gas safe, a detector is the only way to have complete peace of mind.

Many detectors have a long life, and so remain reliable for up to a decade. With options for audio and visual cues, there is an alarm suitable for everyone. Check that every CO alarm in your home is marked BS EN 50291 and displays the British Standards’ Kitemark. If you can’t see these markings, or need to replace an old device, you can find a selection of CO alarms on our website that are suitable for use at home.

Pancake Day Safety Tips

Friday 19th January 2024

What is pancake day?

Pancake day, or Shrove Tuesday, is a Christian traditional feast that takes place just before Lent. Across the world every Shrove Tuesday, thousands of people cook and eat pancakes. Pancakes are easy to make, and many children will get involved in cooking them.

Cooking pancakes is fun for the whole family, but there can be safety risks, especially if children are helping in the kitchen. If your frying pan caught fire, would you and your children know what to do?

Can pancakes catch fire?

Yes, pancakes, and more importantly the oil in which they are cooked, can catch fire. It is all too easy to get distracted lathering your pancake in your favourite topping. It doesn’t take much for a pan with oil to overheat and to burst into flames, so take care when cooking with oil.

Top Pancake Day Safety Tips

Before you get started

Ensure that you have an in-date fire blanket on hand, and that everyone in your home knows how to use it.

Fire blankets are suitable for use on Class F fires (cooking oils and fats), and should be a safety feature of every kitchen.

You will see the instructions clearly printed on the front of most fire blankets, and tutorial videos are available online. You can find more information in our fire blanket help guide.

Before pancake day, we recommend that you go through the evacuation plan for your house before cooking, to ensure that everyone knows to get out of danger quickly and safely.

You can also keep your family safe by ensuring that enough smoke and heat alarms are fitted and working in your property. Why not sign up for Safelincs’ Alarm Test Reminder Service to keep your family safe all year round?

How to extinguish a pancake on fire

Make sure everyone who will be cooking knows what to do if a pancake catches fire:

Stay calm and turn off any heat sources if you can
If the flames are still just in the pan, cover the fire with a metal lid or a fire blanket
If you cannot safely extinguish the fire yourself, evacuate the building and call the fire brigade immediately.

NEVER attempt to extinguish an oil fire with water, as this can cause explosions. This YouTube Video is a useful resource to share with your family.

While you are cooking

Ensure that a responsible person is supervising the cooking of the pancakes at all times.

Pancakes are simple to make and lots of little ones like to get involved on Shrove Tuesday, but parents and guardians should be mindful of the dangers in the kitchen. As with all cooking, open flames and hot pans pose burn risks. It’s a good idea to always have a fully stocked burns kit on hand in the kitchen in case accidents happen.

Turn off the heat in between ‘rounds’, when the pan is not being used.

Don’t leave the hob burning or pancakes cooking unattended

When excitement levels are high, it can be easy to forget normal safety habits. You would never leave the hob on while eating dinner – make sure it is off while you are eating your pancakes, even if you are planning to go back and make more.

Check your cooking area is clean and clear to prevent anything from catching fire.

Keeping a clear workspace when cooking can be hard, especially with small children around. Even if you can’t keep on top of the floury counters and sticky fingers this pancake day, ensure that the area around the hob stays clear. If you put oven mitts and tea towels down next to the cooking area, this can pose a huge fire risk.

For more top home safety tips, try the home fire safety check. This free tool will help you to identify fire safety hazards in your home and offers clear tips and advice for how to improve safety for your household!

Easy Pancake Recipe

We recommend BBC Good Food’s Easy Pancake recipe for all aspiring chefs!

Enjoy pancake day and stay safe! 🥞

Foam vs Powder Extinguishers

Tuesday 16th January 2024

Both foam and powder extinguishers are commonly found in workplaces and public spaces across the UK, but which is best? Both types of extinguisher are suitable for use on most common fire risks, making them versatile, and a popular choice. Selecting the best fire-fighting solution for your organisation can be difficult and will depend on the type of environment and risks that exist.

Powder Fire Extinguishers

As the name suggests, powder extinguishers contain a dust like powder, which when discharged, forms a thin layer on top of the burning fuel. This layer absorbs heat and deprives the fire of oxygen, which prevents the continuation of the chemical process of combustion.

Pros of Powder Extinguishers

Powder extinguishers are versatile, being suitable for Class A, B, C fires and fires involving electrical equipment
Fluorine-Free
Powder units can be up to twice as effective against class A fires as foams
Does not freeze so can be used outside all year round
Safe for use on live electrical equipment up to 1000V at a distance of 1m

Cons of Powder Extinguishers

No class F rating
Messy and costly to clean up after discharge
Should only be discharged outdoors
Discharge can aggravate respiratory and digestive systems
Can reduce visibility when discharged

Foam Fire Extinguishers

Due to the harmful PFAS chemicals that AFFF Foam contains, the manufacture of AFFF foam fire extinguishers is expected to be banned before the end of 2026. Safelincs have already discontinued the sale of AFFF Foam and water additive extinguishers, and some manufacturers have developed a range of more environmentally friendly alternatives.

Britannia Fire has launched two eco-foam P50 Service-Free Fire Extinguishers: A-Foam and B-Foam. Like AFFF Foam, the medium in these units works by covering the fire, and forming a seal that cuts off the oxygen supply, and has a cooling effect.

Pros of Foam Extinguishers

Suitable for indoor use
Fluorine-Free
Suitable for indoor workplace environments with class A, B and live electrical equipment risks (select either A or B foam depending on the amount of class A or B risk)
B-Foam has an additional F class rating
Safe for use on live electrical equipment up to 1000V at a distance of 1m

Cons of Foam Extinguishers

No class C rating

Water Mist Fire Extinguishers – an Alternative to Powder and Foam

Water mist fire extinguishers are 100% environmentally friendly, as they contain only de-ionised water. Upon discharge, water mists therefore release no harmful substances, and leave no messy residue to clean up. The water they contain is de-ionised, and so does not conduct electricity. This means that they are also safe for use on live electrical equipment, making them an ideal replacement for the AFFF foam extinguishers.

An alternative solution to foam or powder fire extinguisher

Foam vs Powder Extinguishers – Which Extinguisher Should I Choose?

In premises where the fire risk assessment has identified only Class A and/or Class B risks plus fires involving electrical equipment, there are several types of fire extinguisher which may be suitable:

Ultimately, the type of extinguisher that needs to be installed on a premises will be determined by the risks identified by the fire risk assessment. Where there is overlap, and more than one type of extinguisher would be suitable, it is up to the responsible person to ensure that they have selected the most effective and appropriate fire-fighting solution for their organisation or property.

Powder extinguishers are often best for outdoor environments where there is a mixed fire risk. Water mist or eco-foam extinguishers are ideal for indoor spaces with common fire risks.

If you are still unsure which type of extinguisher to install on your premises, why not book an extinguisher survey with one of our qualified engineers. We also offer free site surveys for service-free P50 fire extinguishers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a powder extinguisher used for?

A powder extinguisher is used for tackling multiple types of fires. These versatile fire-fighting tools can extinguish Class A fires (involving solid materials like wood and paper), Class B fires (involving flammable liquids), Class C fires (involving gases), and fires involving live electrical equipment up to 1000V at a distance of 1m. When you discharge a powder extinguisher, it forms a thin layer on the burning fuel that absorbs heat and deprives the fire of oxygen, stopping the combustion process. Powder extinguishers are best suited for outdoor environments due to their messy discharge and potential respiratory irritation.

How many types of fire extinguishers are there?

There are several types of fire extinguishers available, each designed to combat specific fire risks. The main types include water, water mist, foam, powder, CO2 and wet chemical extinguishers. Each type works differently and targets specific fire classes. When selecting which of these types of fire extinguishers to install, you should always base your decision on the fire risk assessment for your premises. The number of types of fire extinguishers you might need depends on the various fire risks present in your environment, with some locations requiring multiple types for comprehensive protection.

How do water fire extinguishers work?

Water fire extinguishers work by cooling the burning material below its ignition temperature. When directed at a Class A fire (involving solid materials like wood, paper and textiles), the water absorbs heat from the fire, reducing the temperature and eventually extinguishing the flames. Traditional water extinguishers are not usually suitable for electrical fires as water conducts electricity, but specialised water mist extinguishers use de-ionised water that doesn’t conduct electricity, making them safe for use on electrical equipment. Understanding how water fire extinguishers work helps you determine when they’re appropriate to use in an emergency situation.

Which type of fire extinguisher should you use on live electrical equipment?

When dealing with fires involving live electrical equipment, you should use either a CO2, powder or any water-based extinguisher that has passed a di-electric test in accordance with BS-EN3. Essentially if an extinguisher is marked with the electrical symbol on the front or says it has been di-electrically tested, it is suitable.

What type of fire is a CO2 fire extinguisher used for?

A CO2 fire extinguisher is used for Class B fires involving flammable liquids and fires involving live electrical equipment. The type of fire a CO2 fire extinguisher is most effective against includes those involving electrical equipment, computers and other sensitive electronics where other extinguishing agents might cause damage. CO2 works by displacing oxygen, which starves the fire of one of the elements it needs to continue burning. Unlike powder extinguishers, CO2 extinguishers leave no residue, making them ideal for environments with expensive or sensitive equipment.

What is a dry powder extinguisher used for?

A dry powder extinguisher is used for fighting multiple classes of fire, making it one of the most versatile fire-fighting tools available. When asking what a dry powder extinguisher is used for, the answer includes Class A fires (involving solids like wood and paper), Class B fires (involving flammable liquids), Class C fires (involving gases), and fires involving live electrical equipment up to 1000V from 1m away. Dry powder extinguishers work by releasing a fine powder that forms a barrier between the fuel and oxygen, interrupting the chemical reaction occurring in the fire. They’re particularly valuable in outdoor settings and environments with mixed fire risks, though they should not be used indoors due to cleanup issues and respiratory concerns.

What is a dry chemical powder extinguisher used for?

A dry chemical powder extinguisher is used for combating multiple fire types in a variety of settings. When considering what a dry chemical powder extinguisher is used for, you should know these versatile units can tackle Class A fires (involving solid materials), Class B fires (involving flammable liquids), Class C fires (involving gases), and fires involving electrical equipment up to 1000V at 1m distance. The chemical powder works by interrupting the chemical reaction in the fire while also creating a barrier between the fuel and oxygen. These extinguishers are particularly effective outdoors where their discharge won’t cause visibility issues or respiratory concerns.

What type of fire is a powder extinguisher used for?

A powder extinguisher is used for multiple types of fires, making it highly versatile. When considering what type of fire a powder extinguisher is used for, the answer includes Class A fires (involving solid materials like wood and textiles), Class B fires (involving flammable liquids like petrol and oil), Class C fires (involving gases), and fires involving live electrical equipment up to 1000V when used from a distance of 1m. The powder works by forming a thin layer over the burning material, which absorbs heat and cuts off oxygen supply to the fire. This versatility makes powder extinguishers particularly valuable in environments with mixed fire risks, especially in outdoor settings where their discharge won’t cause visibility or respiratory issues.

What is a powder fire extinguisher not used for?

A powder fire extinguisher is not used for indoor fires in enclosed spaces, despite its versatility for multiple fire classes. Ideally they should not be used in confined areas where people might inhale the powder, which can irritate respiratory and digestive systems. They’re also not recommended for use on delicate equipment due to the difficult cleanup process after discharge. Powder extinguishers are not suitable for Class F fires involving cooking oils and fats. Additionally, they should not be used in situations where visibility is crucial, as the powder discharge can significantly reduce visibility in an enclosed space, potentially hampering evacuation efforts.

What is the ABC powder fire extinguisher used for?

An ABC powder fire extinguisher is used for tackling multiple fire types in a single unit. These versatile extinguishers can combat Class A fires (solid materials like wood, paper and textiles), Class B fires (flammable liquids like petrol and oil), and Class C fires (gases like propane and butane). Additionally, they’re safe for use on fires involving live electrical equipment up to 1000V when used from 1m away. The ABC designation refers to the fire classes the extinguisher can handle, making it a popular choice for locations with varied fire risks. These extinguishers work by releasing a powder that creates a barrier between the fire’s fuel and oxygen while simultaneously interrupting the chemical reaction of combustion.

What is a CO2 fire extinguisher not used for?

A CO2 fire extinguisher is not used for Class A fires involving solid materials like wood, paper and textiles. When asking what a CO2 fire extinguisher is not used for, you should know they have limited effectiveness on deep-seated Class A fires because they don’t provide the cooling effect needed to prevent re-ignition. CO2 extinguishers are also not suitable for Class F fires involving cooking oils and fats. They should not be used in confined spaces without proper ventilation, as they work by displacing oxygen, which can create asphyxiation hazards. Unlike powder, water mist or foam extinguishers that can handle multiple fire classes, CO2 extinguishers are specifically designed for Class B fires and fires involving electrical equipment, making them less versatile in mixed-risk environments.

What does a dry powder fire extinguisher contain?

A dry powder fire extinguisher contains a specialised dust-like powder, typically made of sodium bicarbonate, potassium bicarbonate or monoammonium phosphate, depending on the specific type and intended use. When asking what a dry powder fire extinguisher contains, it’s important to note that this powder is specially formulated to smother fires by forming a thin layer on the burning fuel when discharged. This layer absorbs heat and deprives the fire of oxygen, preventing the continuation of the combustion process. The powder is stored under pressure with nitrogen as the propellant gas. Unlike foam or water extinguishers, dry powder fire extinguishers contain no liquid components, allowing them to be used in freezing conditions outdoors all year round. Powder extinguishers do not contain toxic PFAS chemicals.

What is a foam extinguisher used for?

A foam extinguisher is used for fighting Class A fires (involving solid materials like wood and paper) and Class B fires (involving flammable liquids). When considering what a foam extinguisher is used for, you should know that modern environmentally friendly foam extinguishers, such as P50 A-Foam and B-Foam, work by covering the fire and forming a seal that cuts off the oxygen supply while also providing a cooling effect. Any extinguishers that have been di-electrically tested are also safe for use on live electrical equipment up to 1000V at a distance of 1m. Some foam variants offer the additional benefit of being suitable for Class F fires involving cooking oils.

What are the four types of fire extinguishers?

The four types of fire extinguishers most commonly found in workplaces and public spaces are water, foam, powder and CO2 extinguishers. When asking what are the four types of fire extinguishers, you should understand that each type serves specific purposes: water extinguishers are primarily for Class A fires (solids); foam extinguishers handle Class A and B fires (solids and liquids); powder extinguishers are versatile for Class A, B, C fires and electrical equipment; and CO2 extinguishers target Class B fires and electrical equipment. A fifth type, wet chemical extinguishers, is specifically designed for Class F fires involving cooking oils. Water mist is an additional type of fire extinguisher. Understanding the capabilities of these types of fire extinguishers helps you select the appropriate fire-fighting solution based on your specific fire risks.

What is a wet chemical fire extinguisher used for?

A wet chemical fire extinguisher is used primarily for Class F fires involving cooking oils and fats, making them essential in commercial kitchens and food preparation areas. When deployed, the wet chemical fire extinguisher releases a fine mist that cools the burning oil and undergoes a chemical reaction with the fat to create a soap-like substance that seals the surface and prevents re-ignition. These extinguishers are also effective on Class A fires involving solid materials. They provide a specialised solution for the unique risks posed by high-temperature cooking oils that traditional extinguishers might struggle to combat effectively.

What is the dry powder fire extinguisher class rating?

The dry powder fire extinguisher class rating typically includes Classes A, B and C, making it one of the most versatile extinguishers available. When looking at what the dry powder fire extinguisher class rating covers, you’ll find these extinguishers are suitable for Class A fires (involving solid materials like wood and paper), Class B fires (involving flammable liquids like petrol and oil), and Class C fires (involving gases like propane and butane). Additionally, they’re rated for use on fires involving live electrical equipment up to 1000V from a distance of 1m. This multi-class rating is why powder extinguishers are often chosen for environments with varied fire risks, particularly outdoor settings where their discharge won’t cause visibility or respiratory concerns.

Gaps Underneath Fire Doors

Friday 22nd December 2023

What is the maximum gap allowed under a fire door?

The maximum gap allowed under a fire door is usually 10mm. However, this is not always the case. It is essential to consult the manufacturer’s guidance for the specific type of door that has been installed.

Why should I worry about the gap under my fire door?

Fire doors need a bit of a gap around them to swing freely above the floor covering. However, if the gap is too wide, the fire door’s effectiveness will be compromised. In that case, the door may not provide the protection that it should if a fire breaks out.

All Responsible Persons for fire safety have a legal obligation to maintain their fire doors in accordance with its certification. There is new legislation for the maintenance of fire doors in residential flats. As a result of this legislation, thorough fire door checks must be caried out every three months in properties over 11 meters high, or containing two or more separate dwellings. Consequently, if fire doors are found to be non-compliant, and there are no plans in place for repair or replacement, the Responsible Person could be prosecuted.

Are gaps allowed under fire doors?

Yes, fire doors should have gaps underneath them to allow free movement and ventilation. The allowance for the size of this gap varies between manufactures and must fall within the specified range for that door. Therefore, as recommended in BS 8214:2016 – 9.5.3, you should check requirements with your fire door manufacturer. This is the only way to ensure that every door on your premises is complaint. The door manufacturer should be able to give you specific advice for your circumstance.

If smoke protection is required by Building Regulations, the maximum gap underneath the fire door is reduced to 3mm.

How to fix fire door gaps

Surface mounted drop-down smoke seals or rebated drop-down smoke seals can be fitted to existing fire doors if the gap is too large. Usually suitable for gaps of up to 14mm, they can be attached to the bottom of the door. When the door closes, a plunger makes contact with the door frame and lowers the seal to the floor, closing the gap under the door.

Need further advice?

Gaps underneath fire doors aren’t the only place where compliance issues can arise. To carry out a full fire door check, why not use our free fire door inspection checklist? If you find that your door is unsuitable and needs to be replaced, you can view our range of standard and bespoke fire doors, or contact our friendly and knowledgeable fire door team at 0800 433 4289 or email firedoors@safelincs.co.uk.

If you would like further advice or information about your fire doors, read our Fire Door FAQs or fire door guide.