It’s important to stay safe when using portable heaters and different methods when heating your home. Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service share a guide on what you can do to keep you and those around you safe.

Portable heaters

– Keep at least one meter distance from your heater as sitting too close could set light to your clothes or furniture.

– Make sure your appliance is in good working order and you are familiar with the instructions, so you can use it safely. It’s also best to plug the heaters into a wall socket and not an extension lead.

– Heaters can block your escape route, if there was a fire, so make sure you place them in a safe place

– Remember to unplug the heater before you go to bed or leave the house

– Make sure to only use gas or paraffin heaters in well-ventilated areas, and check if they are suitable for indoor use

Open fires and woodburning stoves

– Always use a fire guard with an open fire to stop flying sparks from hot embers, and make sure the embers are put out before you go to bed.

– Remember to not dry your clothes close to open fire.

– It’s important that you have a CO alarm in all rooms with fuel burning appliances. If you don’t have the alarm, please contact us.

Electric blankets

– If you have an electric blanket, remember to put it flat, rolled up or loosely folded to atop damaging the wires, and unplug before you go to bed, unless it has a thermostat control for safe all-night use.

– Make sure you often check your blanket for wear and tear and avoid using it if wires are visible of poking through the fabric.

– Remember to always follow the instructions.

Candles

– 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.

-It’s best to avoid using candles when tired or drinking, in your bedroom or anywhere you might fall asleep.

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.