Keeping you and your home safe

It is important to feel safe and comfortable in your home.  There are some simple precautions and things you can do to help make your home more secure and prevent accidents. 

Things you can do to keep yourself and your home safe

  • have a smoke alarm fitted and check the battery at least once a month. Further information is available on the Avon Fire and Rescue website
  • have your heating and cooking appliances checked regularly. Visit Age UK Gas & Electrical safety
  • try to remove clutter and other trip hazards like rugs and trailing wires
  • make sure there is enough light to see, especially if you get up at night
  • consider getting and wearing a personal alarm, particularly if you live on your own
  • keep your property secure and carry out regular property maintenance .  Further information about home safety is available from Age UK Home Safety Checker
  • be alert to scams and rogue traders  You may wish to fit a door security chain to use when someone comes to your door.

Further information about home safety 

Closed Circuit TV Cameras (CCTV)

To increase home security you can fit Closed Circuit TV Cameras (CCTV) to your property.  Before purchasing any CCTV systems it is advisable to read the Government Regulations that apply to the use of Domestic CCTV.

Neighbourhood Watch Schemes

Becoming part of your local Neighbourhood Watch Scheme enables you to get together with your neighbours to have a say in the issues which matter to you in your community, including crime and security issues. You can find contact details for local neighbourhood watch schemes in your area on the Neighbourhood Watch Scheme website.

Further information about keeping young children safe at home is available on the South Gloucestershire Children’s Partnership website

It is important to keep your home at a comfortable temperature, especially if you or someone you live with has underlying health conditions. In winter, try and set your heating to the NHS recommended minimum of 18°C or 65°F if you can. In hotter months, keep windows open when the temperature starts to cool outside and when it is safe to do so. See our webpage for more information on keeping your home at a comfortable temperature and help with the cost of heating your home.