If you live in a flat, having access to a balcony is great, especially during warm weather. Whilst we want you to enjoy your balcony, it’s really important to keep safety in mind, especially as how you use it can impact on your neighbours.

Here’s how to keep safe:

Items on balconies

• If you have space on your balcony for a table and chairs, make sure they’re made from non-flammable material, such as metal rather than wood.
• Keep balcony furniture away from the railing and don’t stand on it.
• BBQs are a major fire risk, which is why they’re not permitted on the balconies of any of our buildings.
• Other items that mustn’t be stored on balconies include electrical items, white goods, e-bikes and e-scooters, heaters, and anything else that is flammable, such as rubbish, gas canisters, screens and cupboards.

Smoking on balconies

• Whilst it’s safer to smoke outside, always make sure you put cigarettes right out and dispose of them properly. To be extra sure, add drops of water to the bottom of the ashtray.
• Don’t leave lit cigarettes unattended or resting on the edge of an ashtray – they can tip and fall as they burn away.
• Never throw cigarette butts from a balcony, as they can start a fire elsewhere.

General safety

• As both a safety and a security precaution, keep the door locked when you aren’t using your balcony.
• If you have young children, you could consider installing a child-proof gate – and make sure they don’t go out onto the adult if an adult isn’t present.
• Don’t lean over, sit or climb on the balcony wall or railing – and explain the risks to children.