There is documented evidence following Safeguarding Adult Reviews (SAR) highlighting that following fatal accidental fires in the home, adults with care and support needs may be at an increased risk of fire. However, these traits are not always recognised by their care provider and are not shared with fire and rescue services who are best placed to offer advice guidance and support.

Public sector organisations have a duty under the Care Act 2014 to work effectively and in partnership to ensure that individuals can continue living independently, safely in their own home for as long as possible.

Fire service data analysis concludes that casualties of accidental dwelling fires who are in receipt of care and support, are more likely to be severely injured or die as a result of the fire.

Identifying vulnerability and risk to fire

The following are characteristics and vulnerability to fire that you may see or become aware of during the course of your work:

• Smoking within the property
• Dementia
• Disorganised living – hoarding behaviours
• Learning Disability
• Inappropriate use of or unsafe electrical appliances
• Use of prescribed medication
• Heaters and open fires
• Sensory impairment
• Air flow mattresses and cushions
• Mental ill health
• Physical impairment/Limited Mobility/Reduced Manual Dexterity  
• Emollient creams 
• Incontinence pads
• Living alone 
• No working smoke alarms
• Use of medical oxygen

While individually, these can increase risk to an individual, combinations of these characteristics will escalate the risk and make it even more vital to ensure appropriate support and mitigation is considered. 

Where risk and vulnerability to fire is identified, a Home Fire Safety Visit should be requested, even where the individual may not meet eligibility/thresholds for care provision. Consent is required for all visits. 

For free fire safety advice or to request a free home fire safety check, call 0800 0321155

To request a Home Fire Safety Visit for someone you are supporting please click here.

If you’d like to download and send us a Referral Form for a Home Fire Safety Visit please click here.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why are there 2 email addresses on the referral form?
  
  We have 2 emails included on the referral form. One is a CJSM (Criminal Justice System Mail) account. You need to have a CJSM email account to be able to send to this email address. This is why there is an alternative address for those who do not have a CJSM account. Please use the one which is appropriate for you.
• How will I know you have received my referral?
  
  An automatic response is generated when you email us. This confirms our receipt of your referral form. If you want to check we have received your referral you can also ring us on 0800 032 1155. A link to the most up to date copy of our referral form is also attached. This is currently version 1 May 2024.
• How long does it take from submitting a referral to the occupier getting a Home Fire Safety Visit (HFSV)?
  
  We triage all referrals we receive. The more detailed the information, the more effective and accurate our risk assessment will be. Currently the aim for the initial contact to make an appointment for medium risk referrals is 6 weeks, for high risk it is 7 days, for very high risk it is 3 days and for immediate risk (arson) it is one day.
• Will I get informed a HFSV has taken place?
  
  Due to the number of referrals we receive, we do not routinely send out feedback following on from a HFSV. If we are unable to contact an occupier or the visit is refused will get in contact to inform you
• Will I get feedback from the HFSV?
  
  Due to the number of referrals we receive, we do not routinely send out feedback following on from a HFSV. If we identify further support is required or we want to share concerns, we will make contact and feedback to you. If we are unable to contact an occupier or the visit is refused will get in contact to inform you.
• Can I request feedback?
  
  If you would like specific feedback from a HFSV, please contact us to request an update. Either on 0800 032 1155 or email signposting@hwfire.org.uk
• How can I find out more about the HFSV and Signposting?
  
  Further information and both a copy of our electronic referral form and a link to the online Safelincs form are in the links provided. Our team of Prevention Engagement Officers carry out Hazard Awareness Training Sessions for staff and volunteers. You are welcome to call us on 0800 032 1155 or email signposting@hwfire.org.uk if you would like further information.

Free Professionals Hazard Awareness Training

To assist partners in identifying when an individual may benefit from a Home Fire Safety Visit, our team of Prevention Engagement Officers can deliver free Professionals Hazard Awareness training; this is for staff members who work with vulnerable individuals.

The training will provide the professional with the awareness to spot fire hazards and unsafe practices around the home and the knowledge on how to refer an individual to us for a free HFSV. The aim of the training is to reduce death and injury from fire and other hazards through effective partnership working, making every contact count and save more lives.

Please contact the Prevention Team for more details and to book:

Tel: 0800 032 1155

Email: signposting@hwfire.org.uk