Safety in shared spaces and outside areas

Corridors and shared internal spaces

Keep escape routes clear. Do not leave large items such as furniture, prams, bikes or e-bikes in communal areas, shared balconies or corridors.

Do not wedge self-closing doors open. These doors are normally fire-resistant – they help to stop fire and smoke spreading, but only when they are closed.

Ensure everyone in your household knows where the nearest fire exits are located.

E-scooters

Faulty lithium batteries in e-scooters are a growing problem. If they become damaged or fail in any way, they can start ferocious fires. This is why we do not allow charging or storing of e-bikes and e-scooters in communal spaces. We will remove any scooters we find in shared spaces to reduce risk and keep escape routes clear.

Learn more about the dangers of e-scooters.

Balconies

Disposal of cigarette butts

According to the London Fire Brigade, smoking remains the leading cause of fire-related deaths, so it’s really important for smokers to take steps to reduce risk. It’s always safer to smoke outside but cigarettes must be fully extinguished and properly disposed of. Never throw cigarette butts from a balcony, as they could start a fire elsewhere.

Lit cigarettes, pipes or cigars should never be left unattended or balanced on ashtrays, as they can easily tip over. When emptying ashtrays, make sure all smoking materials are completely out and cooled and preferably wet them before throwing into a bin. To reduce the risk of fire, please avoid disposing of cigarette ends in bin chutes or external paladin bins.

Find out more tips by visiting the LFB’s website.

BBQs

To reduce risk from fire and reduce disturbance to your neighbours from smoke and noise, BBQs are not allowed on balconies or communal areas of estates.

If you hold a BBQ elsewhere, make sure it is always attended and keep them away from fences, sheds and trees. Always be safe around BBQs and follow the London Fire Brigade's guidance.

Gas cylinders and flammable liquids

Never store combustibles and flammable liquids, for example gas cylinders, kerosene and fuel on your balcony. If you need oxygen cylinders for health reasons please let our tenancy team know.

Garden and pathways

Some tips to keep your gardens and pathways safe:

• do not leave sharp tools lying around – keep them safely locked away and out of reach
• make sure your garden is secure by keeping fences, walls and gates in good repair so children do not get out onto busy roads
• swings and climbing frames should be securely fixed and well maintained
• BBQs can be a major fire hazard:
  • never leave a BBQ unattended, especially when children are around
  • lit BBQs give off carbon monoxide, so BBQs should never be used indoors
• keep paths and steps clean and well maintained
• use a shed to:
  • lock away dangerous chemicals like weed killers, sharp tools and electrical equipment when not in use
  • store all chemicals in the original containers and never in cups or soft drinks bottles
• cover ponds and empty paddling pools immediately after use
• electrical equipment:
  • unplug electrical equipment when not in use
  • never use electrical equipment in the wet and keep it in good repair
  • fitting an RCD (residual current device) could save a life
• always keep an eye on children when playing with animals and make sure animals are kept under control
• make sure you know if any of the plants in your garden are poisonous and keep them out of reach of young children