Fires can ignite surprisingly easily in daily life, often due to unnoticed, routine actions. Yet, even one fire is too many.

In collaboration with insurance company Turva, we've compiled a list of factors that affect fire safety in everyday life. Review the list and reflect on your habits: Are your daily routines regarding fire safety up to date, or are small risks not noticed?

Fire detectors are crucial for your own safety and that of your neighbours. Smoke alarms are mandatory by law, and it is the occupant's responsibility to ensure they are installed. However, from the beginning of 2026, the responsibility for acquiring, installing and maintaining smoke alarms will shift to the building owner.

Remember to test your smoke alarm using a button once a month to ensure it works properly.

Candles create a cosy atmosphere on dark evenings, but they should only be burned in rooms where you are present. Always put out candles by smothering them when leaving the room for an extended period.

Place candles safely, ensuring no flammable material, like curtains or tablecloths, is nearby. Candles should always be burned on a non-flammable surface, indoors, on balconies, or on terraces.

It's also essential to put out outdoor candles at night, as fires starting outdoors can be particularly dangerous due to the difficulty of detecting them in time.

It's important to stay alert and never leave food unattended on the stove when cooking. Overheating oil, for instance, can easily catch fire. In case of a grease fire, smother it with a pot lid, blanket, or fire blanket — never use water. It's also important to consider the placement of the toaster in the kitchen and not place it directly underneath the cupboards.

Keep the stove clear of unnecessary items, and ensure no flammable materials are nearby.

Dust and grease can accumulate in the filter of your cooker hood, posing a fire risk. You should clean the grease filter regularly, at least every three months. Dust and grease fires spread quickly and are difficult to extinguish, so regular cleaning routines play a vital role in keeping your home safe.

The sauna is for relaxing, not a storage space for laundry or other items. To ensure safety, ensure no textiles or objects are near the stove. Before using the sauna, double-check that nothing inappropriate has been left on the stove. After using the sauna, turn off the stove and check the thermostat and timer switches regularly.

In some buildings, smoking is still allowed on apartment balconies or yards. If so, ensure the area is well-ventilated, and always dispose of your cigarette in a non-flammable, covered container. A smouldering cigarette can quickly start a fire.

Large appliances, such as refrigerators and freezers, tend to collect dust, which increases the risk of an electrical fire. Your fridge's back, and surrounding areas should be cleaned at least once a year.

Other appliances connected to the mains electricity also carry the risk of short-circuits, though this is rare. However, don't leave dishwashers, washing machines, or tumble dryers running when you're away from home. Not only does this reduce fire risk, but it also prevents potential water damage.

Electrical devices are among the most common causes of electrical fires. Lithium-ion batteries used in rechargeable devices can overheat and cause fires, which can be difficult to extinguish.

When charging devices, it's essential to prioritise safety to avoid any potential hazards. Constantly monitor your devices while charging and unplug the charger from the socket when it's not in use. Use chargers from trusted manufacturers and ensure that devices are charged away from flammable materials. If your electrical device overheats, swells, leaks, or emits an unusual smell, stop using it immediately.

By taking these precautions, you're already taking a significant step towards a safer home. Turva also recommends having at least one fire blanket in every home. A small fire can often be extinguished entirely with early intervention.