This research was conducted to improve our understanding of the links between fire risk and household stability and composition. The research was based on structured interviews with 247 householders in a range of different households. They included 147 households in the Bay of Plenty and 100 from the Lincoln Fire District. The research revealed several indicators of fire risk at a household level, and also gave some insight into the extent to which householders recognised and responded to these risk factors. Interview findings showed some link between household stability, familiarity of household members with each others activities and systematic household management. It provides the basis for identifying appropriate interventions to encourage fire safety in different household types.