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As the county shivers in the grip of snow here are a few simple steps to keep you safe this during this chilly spell.

Prevent a Fire Starting in your Home

• A smoke alarm is the single most important piece of safety equipment in any home - make sure you have a working smoke alarm and test it regularly
• Never smoke in a chair if you think you may doze off, never smoke in bed. Don't smoke if you have taken prescription drugs or have been drinking alcohol
• Do not leave a lit cigarette, pipe or candle unattended
• Use deep ashtrays so that cigarettes can not roll out, and don't throw hot ash into a waste paper basket
• Keep matches and lighters well out of the reach of children
• Sit at least three feet away from heaters
• Never put a heater near clothes or furnishings
• Don't overload electrical sockets
• Never leave a room where a candle is burning. Only use them in a suitable container, away from flammable surfaces and curtains and make sure they are completely extinguished when you put them out.

Safety Tips Before going to Bed

• Interior doors should always be closed when going to bed as they can dramatically reduce the spread of fire
• Make sure the cooker and heaters are turned off
• Switch off and unplug all electrical appliances except those that are meant to stay on, like a fridge
• Rake out open fires and put a fire guard in place
• Empty ashtrays, making sure the contents are cold
• Ensure you have access to a phone
• Always turn underblankets off when you get into bed and never use an electric blanket and hot water bottle together
• Have your electric blankets checked by an expert at least every three years

Further Home Fire Safety Advice

• Prevent a fire starting in the kitchen >>
• Be prepared set out and escape plan >>

Further Winter Fire Safety Advice

• Stay safe outdoors in winter >>

Last update: 05/12/2012 14:53:37