Fire Safety

Smoke detectors are one of the simplest and most effective safety devices you can install in your home.

There are two types of smoke detectors:

• Ionization smoke detectors respond to smoke and are suitable for most spaces, except kitchens or laundry rooms, as they are sensitive to humidity and heat.
• Optical smoke detectors also respond to smoke but are less sensitive to other changes.

Smoke detectors should be installed as close to the center of the ceiling as possible and never closer than 30 cm to a wall or light fixture. Once installed, it is important to check that the smoke detector is working.

It is recommended to have one smoke detector in every room of the house. It is particularly important to have smoke detectors in rooms where electronic devices, such as phones or tablets, are being charged. There should also be a smoke detector in the garage, and it is advised to link it to the detectors in the house.

It is essential to check whether the smoke detectors in the home are functioning at least four times a year. Smoke detectors typically last about 10 years, though battery replacement frequency may vary.

It is crucial for the family to create a plan on how to evacuate the home in the event of a fire.

• Ideally, everyone in the household should participate in creating and practicing the plan.
• Stress to young children that they should not hide if a fire breaks out.

When making an escape plan, remember:

• There should be two clear exit routes from the apartment and house. Install an emergency ladder or rope if necessary.
• Everyone should know to leave immediately upon noticing a fire and call 112 as soon as possible.
• Predetermine a meeting spot outside where everyone gathers after evacuating.
• Remember: never use elevators during a fire.

Fire extinguishers designed for home use are suitable for different types of fires:

• Powder extinguishers: powerful and effective on solid material fires (e.g., furniture and fixtures), oil, and gas fires, making them highly suitable for homes and cars.
• Light water extinguishers: also effective but not suitable for gas fires.

Fire extinguishers should be mounted on a wall with the appropriate hardware, making them easy to remove. They should be placed near escape routes and close to exits. They must be visible so that everyone knows their location.

Fire extinguishers should be inspected at least once a year, and maintenance and replacement information should be indicated on the device itself.

Cooking with oil and grease in kitchens poses a significant fire hazard, so it is important to have a fire blanket available.

A fire blanket should be installed in a visible and easily accessible location in the kitchen, but not so close to the stove that it becomes difficult to reach if a fire occurs.

If a fire breaks out:

• Never splash water on the fire, as this can cause an explosion. Do not attempt to carry a burning pot/pan outside.
• Cover the burning pot/pan with a fire blanket or lid and seal it until the fire is extinguished. Protect your hands from the heat as best as possible.
• Turn off the stove if you can.

Flesta bruna á heimilum má rekja til rafmagns eða rafmagnstækja. Einnig þarf að fara varlega við notkun á gasi og kertum.

• It is important to turn off electrical appliances immediately after use, such as stoves, curling irons, irons, etc. We also recommend disconnecting the power supply to TVs when leaving the home for an extended period, for example, by turning off a power strip.
• Never place flammable materials, such as pizza boxes, on stovetops, even if they are turned off.
• We recommend that washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers are not run when no one is home or when everyone is asleep. Lint that collects in dryers must be cleaned out.
• Never overload power strips with multiple devices, as this increases the risk of fire.
• Do not place devices such as phones, laptops, or tablets on soft surfaces like beds or sofas. This creates a risk of overheating.

It is very important to charge electric bicycles correctly to reduce the risk of fire:

• Never charge the battery overnight or without supervision, as overcharging or defective batteries can lead to overheating and even fires.
• Always use the original charging equipment recommended by the manufacturer, and avoid charging the bicycle in flammable areas, such as enclosed storage spaces with combustible materials nearby.
• It is also wise to charge on a hard, non-flammable surface and ensure adequate ventilation.

• If there is any doubt about the condition of the electrical system, a certified electrician should be consulted to assess the issue.
• Old and damaged electrical panels can be hazardous, especially if they are made of wood or located in cabinets. Electrical panels must have clear labeling.
• Sockets should be securely fastened, and plugs should fit firmly into them.

• Where gas is used indoors, a gas detector must be installed. It should be mounted at floor level in the kitchen and at a similar height in other rooms.
• Gas hoses should be replaced approximately every five years, and we recommend that other equipment is also inspected at the same time.
• It is important to store gas cylinders in well-ventilated areas. If gas is stored in a closed cabinet, ventilation must be ensured both at the top and bottom. Ideally, gas cylinders should be stored outdoors in locked and marked cabinets.
• Pay close attention when grilling and act before the fire in the grill gets out of control. Make sure not to grill too close to wooden walls or windows with large panes. Turn off the gas after use.

• Secure candles on a stable, non-flammable base.
• Do not place candles too close to heat sources, such as radiators or televisions. Burning candles should never be placed on electronic devices.
• Keep candles away from materials that can catch fire.
• Never leave burning candles unattended, and keep matches, lighters, and lit candles out of children’s reach.