Community Safety Advice For All

Community Safety is a vital part of everyday life; whether you're relaxing at home, exploring the outdoors, or the digital world.  

This page brings together essential advice on fire safety, water safety, home safety, personal safety, and online safety to help individuals and families stay safe and informed. From implementing measures to prevent fires from occurring at home, staying safe and alert around our bodies of water in Inverclyde, to securing your home and making smart choices in public, understanding key safety principles can help reduce the risk to yourself and others.

 

When a fire starts in a home, every second counts. The heat and smoke can create confusion and panic. Having an escape plan means everyone can get out quickly and safely.

Bedtime check to prevent fire hazards:

  • Switch off and unplug all electrical appliances not designed to be left on overnight.
  • Close all doors—it can keep your escape route free from smoke and may stop a fire from spreading.
  • Put fireguards around open fires.
  • Switch off any portable heaters and electric blankets unless marked ‘suitable for all night use.’

What should I do in an emergency?

  • Always phone 999.
  • Stay low to the floor where the air is cleaner and cooler.
  • Shout to warn your family or anyone nearby—even outside.
  • If your clothing catches fire, stop, drop down and roll until the flames go out.
  • If someone else’s clothing catches fire, use a blanket, rug or thick coat to put out the flames.

Owner of an E-Bike or E-Scooter? Be Aware of the Fire Risks:

  • Buy e-bikes, e-scooters and chargers from reputable retailers. Avoid counterfeit goods.
  • Unplug your charger when finished and don’t overcharge.
  • Never charge batteries while asleep or away from home.
  • Don’t charge or store near flammable materials.
  • Do not overload socket outlets or use inappropriate extension leads.

Water looks inviting, especially in warm weather, but hidden dangers exist. Edges can be slippery and currents strong—even near the shore.

  • Depth may be deceptive due to underwater shelves.
  • Sharp objects may be hidden—never jump in from height.
  • Cold water can cause thermal shock—float to recover.
  • Water levels can rise quickly due to dam releases.
  • Blue-green algae can be harmful in summer.
  • Ice is rarely strong enough—stay off frozen water.

Keep a safe distance and call emergency services if needed.

Visit the Water Safety Scotland website for more info.

World Drowning Prevention Day: 25 July.

Report damaged rescue equipment to customerservice@inverclyde.gov.uk or call 01475 717171.

Before visiting any body of water, always familiarise yourself with the Water Safety Code. Visit Water Safety Scotland to find out more Water Safety Code

There are many ways to help secure your home. Some are simple and cost nothing.

  • Keep your home locked at all times.
  • Don’t leave keys in door locks, under mats or in obvious places.
  • Ensure thumb-turn locks can’t be accessed from outside.
  • Don’t label keyrings with your name or room number.
  • Don’t keep house and car keys on the same ring.
  • Don’t keep large amounts of cash at home.
  • Mark property with a UV pen or DNA kit.
  • Register valuables on the Immobilise website.
  • Keep valuables out of sight—especially near windows.
  • Don’t display calendars near windows showing when you’ll be away.

If you have a garden, it’s the first thing an intruder will encounter. Take simple steps to secure it:

  • Keep front hedges/fences low (max 1.2m) for visibility.
  • Install locked gates and rear fences (1.8–2m) with deterrents.
  • Grow thorny shrubs like holly, berberis, or firethorn.
  • Use security lighting that alerts you or neighbours.
  • Secure bins to prevent climbing access.
  • Lock away tools, ladders, and garden furniture.

Stay safe online by following these golden rules:

  • Use strong passwords (12+ characters, mix of symbols).
  • Never share sensitive info online or by email.
  • Install antivirus software and firewalls.
  • Keep apps and software updated.
  • Download only from trusted sources.
  • Use secure websites (https://) for sensitive data.
  • Avoid public Wi-Fi that asks for personal info.
  • Back up your data regularly.
  • Manage your social media privacy settings.
  • Be cautious with online dating and money requests.

Inverclyde is a place where everyone is welcome, and Inverclyde Council is committed to tackling any form of hate against those living, working, or visiting the area.

What is classified as a hate crime?

Hate crime is any crime motivated by prejudice against someone because of their actual or perceived:

  • Race, nationality, skin colour or ethnicity
  • Sexual orientation
  • Disability (physical, learning, mental health, sensory)
  • Religion (including sectarianism, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia)
  • Transgender identity

These groups are disproportionately affected by harassment and crime, often driven by prejudice. This impacts individuals and the wider community. If an incident is perceived by the victim or anyone else as motivated by prejudice or hate, it should be reported as a hate crime.

How can I report a hate crime?

Support for victims of hate crime:

  • Victim Support Scotland offers emotional and practical assistance
  • Free helpline: 0800 160 1985 (Mon–Fri: 8am–8pm, Sat: 9am–1pm)
  • Website: https://www.victimsupport.scot