Hard of Hearing

If you or someone you care for has hearing difficulties, you might wonder how to approach fire safety.

We offer specific fire safety advice for those who are hard of hearing to help you feel more confident and safer in your home.

Hearing impaired

If you are deaf, a little hard of hearing or simply a heavy sleeper, you should consider a strobe light and vibrating-pad alarm system.

Fire safety for those with hearing difficulties

If you have reduced hearing ability for any reason, it’s vital that you are aware of fire safety. Traditional smoke alarms give an audible alert to notify users of a fire. However, some people cannot rely on their hearing ability in scenarios like this.

We invite everyone in Lancashire to apply for a free home fire safety check. Deaf people or those with reduced sensory function will most likely receive a personal visit from our community fire safety team. If you don’t quite fit the criteria for a personal visit, we will still provide you with personalised fire safety advice.

You can apply for a home fire safety check online. Alternatively, call our friendly team on 0800 169 1125 (opens your phone app) or email our contact centre (opens a draft email).

Making your home safer

Here are some practical steps you can take in your home:

  • Fit working smoke alarms with vibrating pads and/or flashing lights.

  • Plan an escape route before you need one.

  • Always keep escape routes clear so your exit won’t be obstructed.

  • Make sure you know where the keys for doors and windows are kept.

If you have a fire

In the event of a fire, it’s really important everyone in your home knows what to do.

  • Get out, stay out, and call us out via 999.

  • If you can’t call 999, ask someone to do it for you.

  • If you can’t escape, try to block the gaps at the edges of doors using clothing or other materials.

  • Don’t try to put the fire out yourself.

We offer a range of videos in British Sign Language like this one to help you learn more about fire safety. Please visit our specific BSL fire safety page for more videos and further information.