Summer time is upon us – time to relax, kick back, travel, and enjoy some well-earned time off. But there’s one more aspect we often fail to consider right before we can drive off to the sunset. One that can literally keep us awake at night. And that’s a shame. Did I leave the stove on? Did I unplug my charger? What about the iron?
Most of us double-check the windows and lock the doors, but fire safety often gets overlooked. And yet, unattended appliances, overburdened sockets, or forgotten candles are some of the most common culprits behind domestic fires.
Thankfully, there’s a simple solution. A little preparation before you head out can mean the difference between returning to a tidy home… or a disaster.
Here’s what to know — and what to do — before setting off.
The Hidden Risks in Everyday Routines
It’s easy to become blind to fire hazards in our own homes. We get comfortable, we leave the charger plugged in by the sofa, or the toaster full of crumbs. And most of the time? Nothing happens.
But when you’re away for days, small things can go wrong, and you’re not there to save the day with a fire extinguisher or a quick phone call. That leftover laundry in the dryer, the fan still spinning in the hallway, the dodgy socket in the corner you’ve been meaning to replace — those are the kinds of risks that become real threats when no one’s around to spot the early signs.
Pre-Holiday Fire Safety Checklist for the Home
Before you walk out the door with your suitcase and sunglasses, give your house a quick once-over. Here’s a practical fire safety checklist:
- Unplug non-essential electronics – TVs, game consoles, computers, fans, toasters, and coffee machines should all be switched off and unplugged. Standby mode still uses electricity and still carries risk.
- Check kitchen appliances – Make sure ovens, hobs, and slow cookers are off and clean (grease build-up is a fire hazard).
- Clear clutter near plug sockets and heaters – Don’t leave papers, blankets, or other flammables near plug points or radiators.
- Empty the bins – Especially if they contain anything flammable, like paper, packaging, or used kitchen towels.
- Blow out candles and check wax warmers – Double-check these are fully off (and preferably unplugged altogether).
- Shut interior doors – This simple step can slow down a fire and prevent it from spreading quickly.
- Ask a neighbour to check in – Someone popping in while you’re away could spot a problem early.
- Check your smoke alarms – Give them a quick test before you leave.
Hitting the Road? Don’t Skip Your Fire Extinguisher Check
Planning to head off in your camper van or caravan this season? Before you fire up the engine and roll into adventure, make sure your fire extinguisher is road-ready. A small extinguisher is essential kit for any mobile home — particularly with gas cookers, compact electrics, and tight storage. While these aren’t commercial vehicles, you still want peace of mind knowing your extinguisher will work if you ever need it.
So, is fire extinguisher service a must before you leave? Technically, residential or personal-use extinguishers don’t require formal servicing each year. But they should be checked regularly for pressure, corrosion, and expiry. If it’s been sitting in your van for years untouched, now’s a good time to give it a once-over. And if you’ve had it for more than 5–10 years (depending on the model), it’s probably time for a replacement.
Enjoy Peace of Mind While You’re Away
Prepping for a holiday should be exciting — not stressful. But a small fire at home can quickly undo months of careful planning and turn a dream break into a nightmare. A ten-minute sweep of your home can dramatically reduce your risk and help you truly switch off while you’re away.
