Stay safe and warm this winter!

With winter on its way and the nights drawing in, Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service has issued a timely warning to residents to stay warm but safe as the colder weather takes hold.

Area Manager Gus Cuthbert, Director of Operations, said: “As it gets colder and darker, it’s inevitable that we all spend more time indoors staying as cosy as possible. You might take additional measures to keep warm such as heaters and candles, but these may bring an increased risk of fire into the home. By following some simple rules, you can ensure you stay warm and safe.”

He added: “Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service is here to help and offer advice. If you are in any doubt over any fire safety issues, please do get in touch - and always remember to test your smoke detector every week, as working smoke detectors save lives.”

The following advice will help you reduce your fire risk this winter:

Fires and heaters
Open fires can provide a relaxing and atmospheric way to keep warm, whereas portable heaters can be handily moved around - but it’s important to use them safely:

• Always use a fire guard to protect against flying sparks and hot embers from an open fire and make sure embers are under control and properly put out before you go out or go to bed.
• Keep portable heaters away from curtains and furniture and never use them for drying clothes. Always unplug electric heaters when you go out or go to bed.

Electric blankets
Electric blankets can help you keep warm during the cold nights, but fires can be devastating with 440 injuries resulting from every 1,000 fires started by an electric blanket. Therefore, there are fire safety issues to consider:

• 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 have a thermostat control for safe all-night use.
• Don’t leave electric blankets folded as this damages the internal wiring. Store them flat or rolled up instead.

Candles
Candles may be used to lighten up the dark evenings. As with open fires, a naked flame brings risks if not treated carefully. Candles should be secured in a proper holder, and away from materials that may catch fire - like curtains. It is also very important that candles are put out completely when you leave the room or go to bed.

For a full range of home fire safety advice, visit www.wiltsfire.gov.uk

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