Stay safe in your home this winter

As the nights begin to draw in and the weather gets colder, it’s the time of year that we all start to spend more time indoors. Here are our top safety tips to keep you safe throughout the winter period:

Heating your home

· Keep 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.

Keeping warm

· 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. 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.

· Try not to 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.

Keeping fire safe

· Winter means more time indoors with heating devices running. Make sure you test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

· If you use candles, keep them away from flammable materials and never leave them unattended. Consider using battery-operated candles for a safer option.

For more information about staying safe in your home, please visit our ‘Home Safety’ page.