Think fire safety when saving money on your energy bills
As the weather starts to get cooler, we are asking you to think about fire safety when saving money on your energy bills.
We are concerned that people may put themselves at additional risk as the cost of living increases. As part of a new campaign called 'save safely', we are asking people to think now about preparing for winter, by doing three checks:
1. Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detection
You should have working smoke alarms on every level of your home, and a carbon monoxide alarm in every room where fuel is burned (this includes gas cookers, open fires, and log burners).
Read our tips for choosing and installing smoke alarms.
2. If you’re going to use a portable heater – check it over first
Check for damaged wiring. If something doesn’t look right, dispose of it, or get it checked by a professional. An oil-filled radiator is the safest type of heater as they don’t have any exposed heating elements.
Read our article 'How safe is your heater? Different types and top tips'.
3. Complete an online fire safety check
On our website, we have shared a simple online check of your home to help you be safer from the risk of fire.
If you’re vulnerable or need more help, we can come and visit your home to have a look around – this online check will start this process.
If you don't have internet access you can call 0800 05 02 999.
“We know this winter is going to be really tough for everyone. Every winter we see people making unsafe choices to stay warm, but we are worried this is going to be worse this year.
“We’ve previously had fires resulting from people using old or damaged heaters, drying washing on heaters, or using candles. We’ve also had people using patio stoves indoors in a desperate attempt to stay warm. We know people are going to have tough choices to make due to finances, but we want people to make safety their first thought when it comes to saving money.” - Group Manager, Ros Clarke
The fire service is offering safety advice and signposting to support available in relation to staying warm and saving money this winter. Find out how to stay warm safely this winter.