How to protect your home, garden and pets in extreme heat

A combination of decluttering sunny areas, managing heat, and staying alert can significantly reduce risk to your home, garden and pets. 

In extreme heat, everyday household items can become unexpected fire risks, especially reflective objects that can intensify sunlight. Taking simple precautions can significantly reduce the chance of accidental ignition.

• Keep window sills and sunny spots clear - remove or reposition reflective objects like mirrors, glass ornaments, crystals, anything with curved glass and even some metallic décor. These can focus sunlight like a magnifying glass, creating intense heat that may ignite nearby materials.
• Avoid placing anything flammable (paper, fabrics, dried plants) where direct sunlight hits.
• Close blinds or curtains during peak sun hours, especially in rooms with strong direct sunlight, to reduce the chance of concentrated heat.
• Be cautious with outdoor items too - glass tables, ornaments, and bottles in gardens can also reflect/concentrate sunlight.

Managing indoor temperatures helps protect your belongings, reduce fire risk and improve comfort. Small adjustments can make your home safer during hot weather.

• Use reflective blinds, shades, or window films to deflect heat.
• Ventilate during cooler hours only (early morning / late evening).
• Close windows and curtains during peak heat to trap cooler air inside.
• Consider fire-safe materials for furnishings where possible.

In hot, dry conditions, be mindful of how garden materials, maintenance and sunlight exposure can pose a risk.

• Avoid leaving glass or reflective items outside, this includes decorative mirrors, bottles, or lens-like objects.
• Water plants early or late in the day to prevent scorch damage and reduce rapid evaporation.
• Dry grass or debris can ignite more easily in extreme heat, keep lawns and dry vegetation managed.
• Store flammable garden materials safely (for example, outdoor cushions, dry wood, fuels) away from direct sun exposure.
• Be cautious with BBQs and fire pits. Ensure Calor gas/LPG cylinders are stored away from direct sunlight.

Pets are especially vulnerable during extreme heat and rely on their owners to stay cool and safe. A few simple steps can help prevent heat-related illness and keep them comfortable.

• Ensure constant access to fresh, cool water.
• Provide shaded, well-ventilated areas.
• Never leave pets in cars, conservatories or sun-exposed rooms.
• Check surfaces before walking dogs, pavements and decking can burn paws.
• Watch for overheating signs like excessive panting, lethargy, drooling, seek veterinary help if needed.
• Small enclosures can heat up dangerously fast - keep aquariums and hutches out of direct sunlight.
• Walk dogs early in the morning or later at night to avoid the midday temperatures.

Staying alert and having basic safety measures in place will help protect your property all year round.

• Install and maintain smoke alarms.
• Have an accessible fire extinguisher or fire blanket.
• Create an emergency escape plan for all household members.
• Report or act on unusual heat/light effects quickly.
• If you notice focused light beams or hot spots, act immediately.

Read more about fire safety measures