During the winter period, the risk of a fire in the home increases. Electrical heaters and open fires, candles and electric blankets all adding to the potential fire risk.
We’ve put together some handy tips to keep your home safe, warm and flame-free.
- Keep heaters away from curtains and furniture and never use them to dry clothes.
- Always unplug electric heaters when you leave your home or go to bed.
- Secure heaters against a wall to stop them falling over.
• Always unplug your charger when you’ve finished using it
• Never leave it charging unattended or charge it while you are asleep
• Don’t overload any plug socket such as extension leads
• Don’t overcharge your battery – the manufacturer’s instructions will contain this information
• Read your manufacturer’s instructions
- Never use hot water bottles in the same bed as an electric blanket, even if the blanket is switched off.
- Unplug blankets before you get into bed, unless they’ve a thermostat control for safe all-night use.
- Store electric blankets flat, rolled up or loosely folded to prevent damaging the internal wiring.
- Test electric blankets every three years. Age UK or your local fire and rescue service may be able to do this for you.
- Don’t buy second hand blankets and check regularly for wear and tear. Replace your blanket when it is more than 10 years old.
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Ensure you have a battery-operated light or torch somewhere you can easily access it.
- Keep a mobile phone handy so you can still make an emergency call if there is a power cut. It also makes a handy torch!
- Don’t use candles, they’re a fire hazard and could put you or your family at risk.
Avoid a nightmare before Christmas with our top safety tips!
‘Tis the season to be jolly…and decorate safely!
Ensure your Christmas is merry and bright by making fire safety a priority this year with these top tips.
