Stay warm, stay safe - the message of Electrical Fire Safety Week
This week 14-20 November is Electrical Fire Safety Week. New research, released by national charity Electrical Safety First, reveals a drastic change in how people will heat their homes, as energy bills have skyrocketed in the last year.
A new survey of more than 3,000 nationally representative adults across the UK has shown 42% are either definitely using or considering using an electric heater to heat a single room in their home, due to concerns over the cost of central heating.
Further findings show how, for many, this will be a first, with over 1 in 3 (37%) of those who plan to use an electric heater this winter having not done so before.
Although electric heaters are not inherently dangerous, they can and do cause devastating fires if they are not used with care, with fan heaters posing a greater risk in the home.
Electricity Safety First offers the following guidance on how to look after electrical heaters to help keep your home safe this winter:
- Put your heater on a level surface, well away from anything or anyone that could knock it over.
- Make sure your heater is at least well away from combustible materials, such as paper, furniture or curtains.
- Never use it to dry your clothes!
- Never leave your heater unattended for long periods whilst in use, or while you are asleep.
- Never power a heater from an extension lead – they can easily be overloaded and cause fires
- Regularly inspect your heater for damage and deterioration. If it isn’t in good condition, don’t use it!
- Make sure you buy from manufacturers or retailers that you know and trust. Avoid second-hand heaters but if you do then ask them what safety checks are carried out.
- Register your appliance and ensure you check your heater has not been recalled
- Ensure you have a working smoke alarm on every floor in your home and test it regularly, it could save your life
For more information on staying safe this winter visit electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/costofliving
You can also find guidance on our website, including a socket safety check