Keeping Warm In Winter – Fire Safety Tips

This winter will see many celebrating the festive season and enjoying the merriment with the family. As the nights draw in and get colder, you’ll want to hibernate at home and stay cosy. With our handy tips, you can ensure you stay safe at home and keep the threat of fire at bay whilst still keeping warm.

Fireplaces

Open fires will be in full use this winter, and there is nothing more comforting than the roaring flames on a solid fuel fire. There are many risks with an open fire, however – least of all to small children and excitable pets. Using a fire guard can help prevent accidents by keeping little ones at a safe distance.

When you go to bed, you need to ensure that the fire is completely out, as any embers left burning will put your home at risk. If you have a chimney, then it needs a regular clean and a yearly inspection to ensure it is clean and free from damage. Even if you feel you don’t use your chimney regularly or you have a gas fire, it still needs to be checked out at least once a year, if not every six months.

Electric Blankets

Electric blankets are popular at this time of the year too. While a hot water bottle can warm part of your bed, an electric blanket can heat the entire bed and ensure that you don’t wake up chilly in the night. They can present a danger if they don’t have a thermostat setting, as you won’t be able to keep them on all night – so remember to unplug yours before going to bed. Every three years it will need testing to ensure it is in good working order too.

Candles

Whether you intend to use candles as atmospheric lighting or just a backup in case the power goes, you should always use them sparingly and safely. Don’t use them close to flammable materials or in places where people could knock them onto the floor – accidents such as these can easily cause fires. If you do use candles, then don’t light lots of them all at once and don’t leave them unattended or within the reach of children.

Cooking

The kitchen is another place in which fires are often started by accident. Cooking can be something of a chore over the festive period, but don’t leave pots and pans unattended or in the reach of children. If you discover a fire in a pan then wet a towel and throw it over the blaze. This will cut off the oxygen fuel of the fire. If you’re sleepy or have had a lot to drink in your merriment, then don’t attempt to cook – you’ll be putting yourself and your family at risk if you forget about the kitchen or doze off on the sofa.

Fire Equipment

Finally, check your fire alarms or detectors are in good working order – they could save your life in the event of a fire. If you have a thatched roof then you might want to have one installed in the loft in case the roof should happen to catch fire.