Firefighters are urging people to take simple steps to stay safe this winter.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service (HIWFRS) is concerned that the rising cost of living will mean people across our communities look for new ways to heat and light their homes.
To help reduce the risks from fires and carbon monoxide poisoning, HIWFRS is highlighting how people can protect themselves and their families over the coming months.
Assistant director for prevention and protection, Jason Avery, said:
“We understand many people are concerned about the rising costs of living, in particular the increases in energy bills.
“As people look to save money and cut costs, we’re concerned they may unknowingly put themselves at risk by turning to alternative ways to stay warm, or by changing their behaviour at home.
“Having working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms is the best way to protect yourself, your family and your home.
“We also encourage people to make sure they think about the five Cs – carbon monoxide, cooking, candles, chimneys and clothing – to stay safe this winter.”
- Carbon monoxide: new regulations mean landlords must fit carbon monoxide alarms in all rented accommodation where there is a fixed combustion heating appliance.
- Candles: if you’re planning to light more candles, take extra care by using holders, keeping them well away from curtains and other furnishings, and always blowing them out before leaving the room.
- Cooking: it’s not safe to use alternative cooking appliances such as barbecues or camping stoves indoors as there’s a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Chimneys: always get yours professionally swept and checked before use. Make sure you use the correct fuel for woodburning stoves and open fires to reduce the risk of toxic fumes and carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Clothing: keep drying clothes well away from portable heaters and fires as they can easily catch fire. Where possible, only use washing machines and tumble dryers during the day and when someone is at home.
Jason Avery added:
“It’s really important we all cope safely with the rise in living costs and that we don’t put ourselves or loved ones in harm’s way.
“If you are only heating one room and are using it for both sleeping and living, please make sure you have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms nearby, so you can hear them.
“We will be working hard to support our communities through the challenging times ahead and are here to provide advice on reducing the risk of devastating accidental fires.”
Our home fire safety visits are designed to provide support and advice for the most vulnerable people. If you are worried about a family member, friend, or neighbour – or you are over the age of 65 and want to find out more about how you can stay safe and well at home – you can request a visit.
People can also take the online home fire safety check for themselves or loved ones. Answering a few simple questions will provide you with specific fire safety advice. Take the check today: click here
For more information on home fire safety visits, the online home fire safety check, and other safety tips and advice, go to: cost of living support
Requests for home fire safety visits can also be made by emailing the community safety team at community.firesafety@hantsfire.gov.uk or calling 023 8062 6751, weekdays 9am – 5pm
