Farmhouses and rural business buildings

If you live on your farm, or run a rural business such as for example, a shop or pub, it's important to make sure that you consider the fire safety of your own home as well as that of your business premises. From smoke alarms to keeping your chimney clean, take a look at our advice below. 

If you run a mixed use farm - for example you also have a farm shop or holiday accommodation - please take a look at our Mixed use farm page

Help keep your home and business premises safe

finger pressing smoke alarm to test it

Smoke alarms

Smoke alarms save lives. They are cheap, and easy to fit and maintain. If there is a fire, a smoke alarm will immediately warn you, giving time to escape. Read about the different types of alarms and why you should make sure you have smoke alarms in your home.

Smoke alarms
Range of thatched farm buildings

Thatched properties

Although thatch fires are not common, when they do happen they can be serious. Our thatched properties section provides helpful advice on how to help prevent or reduce the spread of fire in thatched properties and what to do if there is a fire. 

Thatched properties
chimneys on roofs of rural homes

Chimneys

If you have a chimney or stove in your building(s) it's important to have your chimney and flue swept and inspected regularly.  For helpful information about looking after and checking your chimney, take a look at our dedicated section. 

Chimneys, stoves and fires
small shop to one side of country road

Rural business buildings

If you own or run a rural business you will need to carry out a fire risk assessment. This will help to keep you, your staff, customers and building safe from fire. From shops and offices to holiday lets and small premises used for non-domestic purposes, go to our 'Choose your business type' section to learn more. 

Choose your business type
family watching fireworks and bonfire

Bonfires and firework displays

If you're planning to organise a bonfire or firework display - whether it's a public event or a 'semi-public' one such as in the garden of your public house or other premises -  learn what to do before the display, with guidance on stewarding, positioning and constructing your bonfire and more in our dedicated section. 

Bonfires and firework displays
drawing of a flickering flame

If you have a fire

If you experience a fire whether at home or in your business, take a look at our helpful advice and guidance on what you need to do. For businesses this includes reviewing your fire risk assessment and for residential properties, there are helpful links to information on what to do after a fire, and support available.  

If your business has a fire