‘Keep warm keep safe’ as cold weather arrives

The snow scene at Rochdale Town Hall.

Older people looking to keep warm this winter should take care after it was revealed accidental fires are more likely now than at any other time of the year. 

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service issued the warning after revealing that last winter there were 1174 accidental house fires – with smoking materials, cooking appliances and heating appliances being some of the most common causes of winter fires, which often lead to tragic consequences.

The Service, which offers free Home Fire Risk Assessment to any resident in Greater Manchester, launched the ‘Keep Warm – Keep Safe’ message as part of the safe4winter campaign. In particular, the campaign reminds relatives, friends and neighbours to keep an eye on older people and the elderly over the winter months.

Chairman of Greater Manchester Fire Authority Councillor Paul Shannon said: “Winter is one of the most dangerous times of the year for accidental fires especially among older people who use all sorts of methods to try and keep warm. Electric blankets and portable heaters can cause accidental fire with devastating consequences. Our message is be warm, be safe.”

Potentially life-saving tips include: 

• Never smoke in bed or when you’re feeling drowsy 
• Never leave cooking unattended 
• Never leave candles unattended 
• Always use a fireguard around an open fire and make sure the chimney is kept clean 
• Have electric blankets checked regularly by a qualified electrician – don’t leave them switched on and never use them at the same time as a hot water bottle 
• Fit a smoke alarm and check it regularly 
• In the event of a fire Get Out, Call 999 and Stay Out

If you, or anyone you know, has concerns about fire safety in the home then visit www.safe4winter.com – where you will find many safety tips – including how to book a free fire safety check – which you can also arrange by calling 0800 555 815.