East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service advice to public during coronavirus pandemic

With more people staying at home, the service is asking people to switch off any electrical items they are not using.

A spokesman said: “If you’re at home because you’re ill or self-isolating, please take extra care if you’re cooking. Most house fires start in the kitchen. “Switch off any electrical items you’re not using.

“If you use a charger, for a phone or laptop for example, don’t leave it plugged in and switched on when you’re asleep or not using it. And if you use a portable heater, remember not to put it close to things that could easily catch fire, like bedding, clothes, soft furnishings or curtains.

“If you smoke, be extra vigilant. Keep matches and lighters away from children, and double check that your cigarette is properly extinguished. Try not to smoke if you’ve been drinking alcohol, and avoid smoking in bed or if you’re feeling sleepy. If you can do so safely, smoke outdoors.”

ESFRS said its Home Safety Visits are now carred out virtually over the phone where it can talk to people about the fire risk in their homes, after which it may post further information leaflets and/or post smoke alarms for people to fit themselves.

To find out more about a Home Safety Visit, call 0800 177 7069 or complete and return a Home Safety Visit Request Form, which should be sent to [email protected].

The ESFRS spokesman said: “Despite the ongoing coronavirus pandemic (Covid-19) it is important for businesses to continue carrying out duties relating to fire safety in their premises.

“All businesses should therefore review their fire risk assessment and emergency procedures/plans in light of the impact Covid-19 may be having on their staffing levels, operating times, business processes and evacuation arrangements.

“We remain ready to respond to emergencies 24/7, with our stations closed to visitors to help reduce the chances of our crews coming into contact with the virus.

“When we respond, we are likely to take additional precautions to prevent any potential spread of the virus.

“Please follow any instructions you are given by our crews or our control centre 999 operators.

“We are working closely with the Sussex Resilience Forum, health and local authority partners and following Government updates.”

Visit www.esfrs.org.

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