Residents’ safety is always our number one priority.

Following a recent bin fire at one of our properties, we’d like to remind residents how important it is to follow bin storage fire safety guidance.

Your waste storage is essential for maintaining safety around the home and reducing fire risks. Waste bins, particularly when filled with flammable waste, can become a fire hazard if not stored and maintained correctly.

Here are some important fire safety tips for safe waste storage:

• Keep bins away from buildings: Where a bin store is provided, please make sure you use it. If this isn’t available, then store wheelie bins ideally 6 metres away from buildings, windows or doors. If this isn’t achievable then at least 3 metres away. This helps prevent fires spreading to your home or communal areas, if the bin catches fire.
• Avoid storing near heat sources: Ensure that bins are kept away from sources of heat such as barbeques, heaters, or exposed electrical outlets. Even a small spark can ignite waste materials in the bin.
• Close bin lids securely: Always keep bin lids closed to prevent the risk of arson or accidental fires caused by flammable materials, such as paper or dry waste, catching alight.
• Lockable bins: Consider using bins with lockable lids to reduce the risk of vandalism or intentional fire-setting, particularly in areas prone to arson.
• Empty bins regularly: Avoid letting rubbish overflow. These are more likely to spill their contents, increasing the risk of flammable materials being exposed.

By following these steps, you can ensure your bins are safely stored and reduce the risk of fire-related incidents.

If you notice any damage to a bin store door, or bins in the wrong place, please report it to us.

You can do this online through your resident portal or by contacting us on the details below.
Former Optivo residents can email contactus@southernhousing.org.uk or call 0800 121 6060.

Former Southern Housing Group residents can email service.centre@southernhousing.org.uk or call 0300 303 1061.