You don't want to think about it, fire in your home. Still, it is good to think about the risks, because it can happen very quick. Therefore, do not only provide tools to extinguish fires. But think about what you can do to make sure a fire does not break out. Read more about fire in your home on this infographic from the fire brigade.
Fire safety
What to do when a fire breaks out in your home?
Stay calm and warn your housemates.
Leave your home by the shortest route.
Keep windows and doors closed and locked behind you.
Stay low on smoke.
Call 112 and give your name and address.
Wait outside for the fire brigade and give them important information.
Warn neighbors.
Prevent fire risks
What can you do to prevent fire?
Keep access clear: Don't put things in the hallway, porch or on the stairs.
Put the key by the door: This way you can get out quickly if necessary.
Clean clothes dryer: Remove dust from the filter and air outlet hose.
Use safe plug sockets: Is a power strip broken? Replace it. Do you have a maintenance subscription? We help!
Switch devices off: Turn devices like the TV off completely at night, not on standby.
Safe handling of batteries
In an average household, there are about 113 batteries and accumulators, such as those of electric bikes and phones. These can pose a fire hazard.
This way, you limit the risks:
Read the manual and only use original chargers.
Store devices out of the sun and out of the cold.
Charge devices at least every three months, preferably during the day and in a room with a smoke detector.
Leave maintenance to a specialist.
Unplug devices when they are fully charged.
New rules on fire-safe escape routes
The government has introduced stricter rules from 1 July 2024. These state what can and cannot be placed or hung in the common traffic areas of residential buildings. You can read that below.
No items may stand or hang in the ‘communal traffic areas’
These items can catch fire or block the escape route. Also, emergency services must be able to pass through these traffic areas if there is an emergency. Common traffic areas are corridors, stairs, the entrance, gallery and other common areas.
What is still allowed to stand or hang?
A picture next to the front door: this may be up to 0.5m2 in size.
A door mat in front of the door: this may be up to 0.5m2 in size
No other items are allowed. We made a leaflet where you can read all the information again.
Maybe you need help
We can imagine that you find it difficult to remove your belongings. Or that you can't do it yourself and don't have help. In that case, contact your neighbourhood manager. You can find the contact details of your neighbourhood manager in the information box in the central hall of your building.
Any questions? Contact your neighbourhood manager!
We already answer many questions here. Can't find the answer here? Then contact your neighbourhood manager.
Smoke detectors: life savers
Smoke detectors can save lives. They detect fire quickly so you can escape in time. Read the frequently asked questions about smoke detectors here.
Insure against fire damage
Woonbedrijf is only responsible for the bare dwelling. You need contents insurance for your own belongings. Read more about insurance here.