Portable Heaters Cause 4% Of Accidental House Fires Each Year

This week (10th – 16th November) is Electrical Fire Safety Week.

Electrical Safety First is working with the Government’s ‘Fire Kills’ campaign to promote electrical fire safety in the home.  This year they are concentrating on the dangers of portable heaters which are the cause of 4% of accidental house fires each year.

Due to the rise in energy bills people are looking at cheaper alternatives to heat their homes, resulting in the use of portable heaters without realising that they may be putting themselves at risk.

Research carried out by Electrical safety first has shown that:

• 38% would leave a heater switched on unattended
• 33% would use one to keep elderly relatives warm
• 21% would leave one switched on overnight

Be Safe Direct recommend the following when using portable heaters:

Do

• Always switch off and unplug electric heaters when you go out and go to bed.
• Both gas and paraffin heaters should only be used in a well-ventilated area.
• Always position heaters so the back is against a wall and they are facing into the room.
• Switch heaters off if you are not in the room and before going to bed at night.
• Cylinders for portable gas heaters should be stored and changed outside, or in a well ventilated area.
• Always follow manufactuers operating and maintenance instructions.
• Regularly inspect your heater for damage and deterioration.

Don’t

• Do not place heaters close to furniture, curtains or bedding
• Do not leave children or pets unattended if portable heaters are switched on.
• Do not use flammable materials, aerosols or cleaning fluids near heaters.
• Never dry clothes on portable heaters.
• Never plug a portable heater into an extension lead
• Do not stand or sit too close to heaters, some clothes may ignite easily.
• Do not place heaters on uneven surfaces or where they can be knocked over easily.

For more information visit Electrical Safety First www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk