Home safety

Home safety guidance, videos and reporting for fire, gas and electrical risks.

Safety checks My Riverside

Safety checks

Information on fire safety, home security, and emergency preparedness.

Report safety incidents

If you see a major safety risk in your block, such as damaged fire doors, structural issues, or broken vents, report it immediately.

Call 0345 112 6600

Contact us today

lady answering phone call in the call centre

Emergency situations: power cuts and floods

Be prepared for unexpected events like power cuts, flooding, or water safety risks. Follow these steps to protect your home and family.

Flooding

Stay informed and prepared: Sign up for flood alerts

  • Check your long-term flood risk 
Power cuts

What to do before and during a power cut: 

  • Keep alternative lighting (torches or a charged smartphone)
  • Store food that doesn’t need heating
  • Sign up for the Priority Services Register → if you rely on electricity for health or wellbeing

Water safety

Water can carry harmful bacteria like Legionella, which can cause Legionnaires’ disease—a serious type of pneumonia. 


People at higher risk include:

  • Smokers and heavy drinkers
  • People over 45
  • Those with lung or heart disease
  • People with diabetes
How to keep water safe
  • Run unused taps or showers for 5–10 minutes at least once a month
  • Clean taps and shower heads every three months
  • Avoid areas where water can stagnate

Electrical safety in your home

Electricity causes over 20,000 accidental fires in UK homes each year. Most are due to electrical products. Regular checks and safe use are essential—never attempt your own electrical repairs.

How you can stay safe 

Check plugs, leads, and sockets regularly. Do not overload sockets. Use good-quality extension leads and fully uncoil them.