Hoarding is a recognised mental health condition. Sufferers find it hard to get rid of things which can result in their home becoming full of possessions. This makes everyday tasks difficult and can cause significant distress. Hoarding also poses a serious risk of fire, pest infestation and it can even lead to building collapse.
Why is hoarding a fire risk?
Every year many property fires are caused, or made worse, by hoarding.
- Flammable or cluttered items near the hob or oven increase the risk of fire.
- Wiring can become damaged under the weight of hoarded material and pests can chew wires, all leading to electrical fires that can easily spread.
- Smoking is the biggest cause of accidental fires in the home across the country. If someone smokes or uses candles in a home with lots of clutter, the risk of fire is even greater.
- Portable heaters could ignite things if they’re too close, or tip over causing a fire. This recent fire in London is believed to have been caused by a portable heater.
- Blocked pathways can make it hard to get out once a fire starts.
- Emergency services can find it difficult and dangerous to get in. They could be trapped or injured by falling items or trip hazards. Clutter impedes the rescue of people and pets in a fire.
What can you do to help?
Not everyone who hoards recognises that there’s a problem. If you know someone suffering with hoarding disorder, there are things you can do to help:
- Empathise - When talking to someone who hoards, focus on safety, not the clutter. Only call it hoarding if they use that word.
- Plan - Help them make an escape plan. That will require clear pathways and exits.
- Check - Make sure their smoke alarms are working. We fit and test smoke alarms at our annual home safety visits. But smoke alarms also need to be tested at least once a month - here's how.
- Get help - We can refer residents directly to Avon Fire & Rescue Service for a free fire safety visit. You can also refer yourself or someone you know using this link.