Winter and the risk of housefires...Some tips for you all for protection...

Well as winter in upon us here in Australia we drag out the heaters and some drag out electric blankets...There is a few things that are need to be done during winter to be that extra bit safer than before...

If you use electric blankets Have them tested before you use them...Make sure they are turned off before you get into bed at night...You would be suprised how many house fires start with a faulty electric blanket..We put our precious loved ones and ourselves into those beds...So switch them off before you do...

Heaters if you use one of these make sure you keep it away from all curtains, bedding and clothes...Tell your kids how dangerous it is for them to sit too close to this and make sure it is not on when you are not in the room...Maybe even mount it on the wall away from all dangers...When you are buying a new heater look for one that has the safety function that if you knock it over it switches off...

With winter comes lots of stews and soups and warm meals for all..There is nothng better than sitting down to a bowl of warm stew or soup in winter...The majority of fires start in the kitchen...It is really important to not leave cooking things on the stove unattended...If you have to you should either turn the hotplate off while you go or take something with you to remind you you are still cooking somethng like a cooking utensil or a tea towel over your shoulder...It takes such a short time for a fire to start and something falling on the stove top can easily start a fire... Always make sure things like curtains oven mits and tea towels are away from the stove and cooking area...

If you have an open fire always use a fire screen...No excuses at all not only for the safety of intrigued little fingers but also for safety reasons an ember can go a long way across the floor to an unexpecting child in a flammable set of clothes or even onto carpet etc...

The laundry is the next place of call for people...With winter comes the overwork of the dryer...They are safe to use if you follow safety precautions...Clean the filter after every load...After each load is done leave the dryer to cool down...Make sure there is proper ventilation around the clothes dryer and air space...Always dust the back of the dryer...

Now for those who have a wood heater...Always makes sure the flue is installed professionally...The flue or the chimney should be professionally cleaned once a year at least to prevent a build up of flammable stuff and to make sure the heater works correctly...

Reverse cyle air conditioners can also have their risks too..Becaue they suck in air they also suck in dust...All filters on these should be cleaned and dusted regularly...Dust and electrically appliances just do not mix...

These are just a few things that my husband being the diligant little fireman he is LOL wanted to share with all of minti...Most of all remember prevention is the better option when it comes to fire...Winter is just as dangerous for housefires as summer is for bush fires..Take care and be safe...

Have a great day
Cheers
Angie