A fire in your home can happen at any time, but the danger increases with the setting of wood-burning heaters and the use of candles to create a cozy atmosphere.
Most fires start in the kitchen and are caused by neglect. You set something on the stove and then get distracted by a phone, children, or domestic duty – it happens that easily.
Heaters are the second most common cause of a blaze, and the risk increases in winter when we place wet clothes in front of them to dry.
You should also watch for faulty wiring, especially in older homes. Signs that your wiring needs an upgrade include the lights dimming when you use an appliance, and regularly blown fuses or trips of your circuit-breaker. If that’s the case, call an electrician immediately.
Here’s a list of potential issues and tips to keep you and your family safe.
- Test your smoke alarm. Make sure the battery is in good condition. Research suggests you fall into a deeper sleep when you smell smoke.
- Check your chimney to ensure there is sufficient airflow. Smoke will pour back into your home if there’s a blockage. The collection of dirt and soot represents a fire risk
- Check your electric blankets annually. Watch for loose wires and frayed cords, especially if the electric blanket is stored folded. If in doubt, throw it away. They’re not expensive to replace.
- Portable heaters are a great winter solution but don’t put them near curtains or tablecloths. Clothes should never be less than 1m away when drying. Think of it as social distancing for clothes!
- Electrical overload is a risk if you load up one powerpoint. Avoid doing so, and unplug and disconnect appliances that are not in use.
- Another appliance danger lurks in the laundry. Check your dryer for lint build-up. Clean away anything that shouldn’t be there. It doesn’t take much for lint to light up.
- Candles in the living room, or even when you’re soaking in a bath, are romantic and relaxing. But extinguish them when leaving the room for an extended period.
- Kids and matches are not a good combination. Stow matches, lighters and firelighters out of their reach.
- Never leave cooking unattended, especially if deep-frying.
This article is provided for general information only and does not take into account the specific needs, objectives or circumstances of the reader. Before acting on any information, you should consider whether it is appropriate for your personal circumstances, carry out your own research and seek professional advice.