Changes to the cost of living, and with colder weather during the winter months, present many challenges. We anticipate people may look at alternative ways of heating and lighting their homes. These changing behaviours could see a rise in accidental fires and carbon monoxide poisoning.

To raise awareness and to help keep people safe, we are providing extra advice around staying safe at home.

Here you will find information about potential hazards as well as guidance for the safe use of portable heaters, electric blankets, wood burning stoves, candles and chimneys. All can be a potential fire risk if they're not looked after properly.

Our booklet, Keep Warm and Well this Winter, provides information on:

• Help available to make your home warmer
• Financial help
• Agencies providing advice
• Safe heating and cooking
• The Priority Services Register from Energy Networks
• Advice on cutting your bills

Our safety advice includes:

• Never use camping stoves and barbeques indoors
• Always use the correct fuel in a wood burning stove and in open fires.
• Do not use a chimney that has not been checked for blockages
• Use candles safely or ideally use LED lights/torches instead
• If you are using an old or unfamiliar heater, get it checked for safety first

Carbon Monoxide

Many people are looking at new ways to cook and warm their homes. Heating and cooking appliances fuelled by gas, coal, smokeless fuels, wood or oil can cause CO poisoning. The invisible odourless gas can be fatal, so it's important to be aware of the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning. Symptoms include:

• tiredness
• confusion
• nausea
• dizziness
• stomach pain
• shortness of breath
• difficulty breathing
• unconsciousness

Make the Call

We also remind you of our Make the Call campaign and to look out for others. If you know someone who is over 50 and smokes, and who has either mobility issues or uses medical oxygen or lives alone, you can arrange a Home Fire Safety Visit on their behalf.

If you know of someone who needs a Home Fire Safety Visit get in touch by calling 0800 0731 999. Or text FIRE to 80800. Help to support those who are most at risk of fire.