Fire Safety in Rented Accommodation

Before the clocks went forward on Sunday, you may have heard an advert recommending that you test your smoke alarm when you put your clocks forward.  This is sound advice and is a requirement of your tenancy if you are renting a property. 

Tenants are required to keep smoke alarms clean and free of dust, check them regularly and replace the batteries every year. 

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service provide the following advice on maintaining your smoke alarm:

• Test it once a week, by pressing the test button until the alarm sounds
• Vacuum the alarm twice a year and wipe over with a damp cloth to remove any dust
• Change the battery once a year (unless it's a ten-year alarm)
• Replace the whole unit every ten years

According to the Government website, people living in rented or shared accommodation are seven times more likely to have a fire.  They have put together a leaflet for people in shared or rented accommodation, which can be found here: http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/groups/dg_digitalassets/@dg/@en/documents/digitalasset/dg_074034.pdf

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