Balcony safety this Bonfire Night: Keeping your home safe

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As Bonfire Night approaches, we would like to take this opportunity to remind all residents of the importance of balcony safety and the rules surrounding what can and cannot be stored or used on balconies.

Bonfire Night may be a time for celebrations, but it is also important to remember the risks, especially when heat, flames or flammable materials are involved.

It is vital that all residents understand that balconies are not designed for open flames, heating devices, or storage of combustible materials. When misused, they can quickly become a source of serious fire hazards that endanger lives and homes.

Dangers of fire and heat on balconies:

Fires involving balconies are becoming increasingly common in residential buildings across the UK. In many cases, they have been linked to activities such as barbecuing, smoking or using heaters and candles outdoors.

During Bonfire Night and the colder months ahead, please remember that balconies are not suitable for any kind of flame, heat source, or electrical decoration.

What you must NOT do:

To keep everyone safe, please remember that the following are strictly prohibited on all balconies:

  • No barbecues, cooking equipment or open flames
  • No smoking on balconies, winter gardens or in communal areas
  • No fireworks of any kind, including indoor types
  • No storage of gas cylinders, flammable liquids or combustible items
  • No white goods or electrical items
  • No mobility scooters or bicycles
  • Do not attach materials such as timber, plastic or screening to balcony structures
  • Indoor furniture and fabrics must not be stored or used outside

Keeping your balcony clear and free from hazards helps protect you, your neighbours and the wider community.

Safe and responsible balcony use:

If you do have plants or decorations on your balcony, please ensure they are safe.

  • Use ceramic or terracotta pots only
  • Choose live plants, not artificial ones
  • Keep plants well-watered to avoid them drying out
  • Remove blankets, cushions and other fabrics when not in use

Our role in your safety:

At East Village, we have strict balcony policies to protect all residents from fire hazards. Our building management teams regularly monitor compliance, but your cooperation is essential.

These are not arbitrary rules, they exist to save lives.

Please celebrate Bonfire Night sensibly and safely. Attend organised displays and enjoy the festivities from a safe distance. Let’s all do our part to ensure that this time of year remains one of joy and warmth, not one marked by preventable accidents.

Together, we can keep our homes and neighbours safe.