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News Release
Issued: 07.01.09
At: 1:15pm
For immediate release
Stay Safe and Warm this Winter
Now that winter has arrived and the nights are drawing in, Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service are issuing a timely warning to everyone in the community to stay warm but safe as the colder weather takes hold.
Paul Speight, Community Safety Officer, 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 safe and warm.
Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service are here to help and offer advice. If you are in any doubt over any fire safety issues, please do get in touch. We all want to be warm in winter, but we must avoid tragedy.’
Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service has the following advice to 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 an open fire against flying sparks and hot embers 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 1000 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 also be used more to lighten up the dark evenings. As with open fires, a naked flame brings risks if they are not treated carefully.
Paul Speight, Community Safety Officer said:
‘You should make sure that candles are 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.
Very importantly, remember to test your smoke alarm every week. Working smoke alarms save lives.’
Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service have smoke detectors that can be fitted at the same time as a Home Fire Safety Check and we are particularly trying to target vulnerable groups in the community.
If you would like to find out more about Home Fire Safety Checks then please call 0116 287 2241 to ask for a visit. It is all free and it could save your life if there is a fire in your home.
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Notes to News Desk
Contact Information
For more information please contact:
Corporate Communications
Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service
Tel 0116 287 2241
