It’s important to know how to keep your home fire safe this winter. There are preventative measures you can take to stop a potential fire from occurring in your property.

• Make sure to regularly check if your smoke and Carbon Monoxide alarms are working properly. If you don’t have one, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service may be able to fit them for you as part of a Home Fire Safety Assessment (call 0800 555 815 to find out if you are eligible).
• Avoid smoking indoors in bed or in a chair where you might fall asleep. Remember to stub cigarettes out properly and dispose of them carefully.
• If you’re using portable heaters or other appliances, always read the instructions and understand how to use them safely, checking they’re in good working order.
• Keep heaters away from flammable materials such as paper, curtains, furniture and bedding, and make sure they don’t block your escape route.
• Using open fires and woodburning stoves can be a cost-effective way of heating your home. It’s important to always use a fire guard with an open fire to protect against flying sparks from hot embers, and to keep them under control and properly put out before you go to bed.
• Never dry clothes directly on or in close to a heater or open fire.
• Keeping electrical appliances clean and maintained is not only safer but can keep them energy efficient and prolong their lifespan.
• Store electric blankets flat, rolled up or loosely folded to prevent damaging the internal wiring, and unplug before you get into bed, unless it has a thermostat control for safe all-night use.
• Candles are not an efficient way of heating a room and you should be very careful if using them for lighting. Always make sure candles are in a suitable holder and away from anything flammable. Avoid burning several candles close together as this might cause the flame to flare.

For advice specific to you and your home, visit www.manchesterfire.gov.uk/your-safety/hfsa and complete a free online home fire safety check.

In the event of a fire, remember to call fire services on 999.