Keep warm… and safe, this winter

Included below are some interesting facts about fire hazards in the home:

1. Over half of the people who die in fires do not have a working smoke alarm installed at home
2. Older people are more vulnerable, as are those with mobility problems. Just over half of the people who die in accidental house fires are over the age of 60
3. People who carelessly dispose of smoking materials are much more likely to die in accidental house fires
4. Smoking materials cause the majority of house fires- at 35%. This is followed by heaters causing 14% and cooking appliances at 12%
5. House fires are most likely to start in the living room-at 32%. This is then followed by the bedroom at 31% and the kitchen at 18%

These statistics can seem quite daunting, but if due care and attention is taken at all times then accidents can be prevented. It is absolutely essential to have a smoke alarm on each floor of your property and these should all be checked regularly. The same should be applied to carbon monoxide alarms, which are often overlooked. Carbon monoxide is just as, if not more dangerous than fire and is also not detectable without a CO alarm.

Here are some helpful tips to apply to different areas of your home when considering fire prevention:

1. BEDROOM - Falling asleep whilst smoking is the most common cause of fire in the bedroom. Always put cigarettes out properly and NEVER smoke in bed.
2. LIVING ROOM – Make sure all electrical equipment is in safe, working order. Plug sockets should never be overloaded as this is a proven cause of house fires.
3. KITCHEN – Cooking should never be left unattended.
4. LIGHTING – Candles cause a lot of fires and should never be left unattended. They should also not be positioned near flammable items such as curtains.
5. HEATING – Electrical heaters, fires and electrical blankets all increase the risk of fire in the home if not used correctly. Never leave these items on overnight or unattended.