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14 February 2012 04:14
Homes
Cold weather brings home fire risks
Attempts to keep warm could have disastrous results if simple precautions aren’t taken, Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue warns.
Fire prevention experts say that electric heaters, open fires and microwaveable bags can all spark a blaze. And it’s easier than you might think for the worst to happen.
Steve Wright, station manager responsible for community safety, says: “It’s easy to take your eye of the ball when you’re relaxing at home, and a fire can start in seconds if precautions aren’t taken.
“Make sure that you don’t put anything too close to open fires or portable heaters; carefully check electrical cables, plugs, and connections; and if you use an open fire or wood burning stove, ensure that you use suitable fuel and have the chimney swept. Microwaveable heat bags can be particularly dangerous if you don’t follow the instructions exactly. And remember that any extra heaters that haven’t been used for some time may have deteriorated and become unsafe – check them carefully.”
It is the busiest time of the year for fires caused by household heating, which started almost 18 per cent of last winter’s total number of accidental house fires in Lincolnshire.
To discuss concerns or for a free home fire safety check, call 01522 582222 and ask for the Community Safety Department or email http://mce_host/admin/articles/HFSC@lincoln.fire-uk.org For more fire safety advice, visit www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/LFR
Here is Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue’s advice for safely heating the home:
· Turn off extra heaters when you go to bed or leave the house.
· Keep heaters clear of anything flammable – there should be at least three feet of empty space around them.
· Get your chimney swept if you use an open fire.
· Don’t dry washing on or near heaters, or on fire guards.
· Check the condition of any extra heaters. Look at the electrical cables, plugs and connections.
· Take extra care with any heater that has been out of use for some time – its condition may have deteriorated.
· Follow the manufacturer’s guidance on every heating appliance.
· Ensure there is good ventilation to avoid a build-up of carbon monoxide.
· Use a fireguard around an open fire, especially if you have children.
· Never leave children alone in a room with extra heaters or an open fire.
· Always follow the manufacturers’ instructions for microwaveable heat bags. Overheating them can have disastrous results.
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