RESIDENTS are being urged to ensure they maintain fire safety measures in their homes and not be tempted to cut corners to save money during the current cost of living crisis.
The warning from Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (HWFRS) comes as more people spend time at home during the winter.
HWFRS, which has dealt with an average of 528 domestic fires annually over the past decade, is encouraging people to test smoke alarms weekly and to avoid using of inexpensive space heaters that can be unsuitable for the home.
Free Home Fire Safety visits carried out by prevention technicians and fire crews are available for the more vulnerable such as the elderly, people living alone and those with reduced mobility.
Emma Roberts, HWFRS’ head of prevention, said: “The rise in the cost of living is presenting a wide range of challenges for people this winter but we shouldn’t put ourselves or our loved ones at risk.”
HWRFS’ tips for avoiding household fires include having at least one working smoke alarm on every level of your home, keeping candles away from anything that could catch fire, never leaving them unattended and always ensuring they are extinguished after use.
Cooking areas should be kept clear of combustible materials, children and pets, pans should never be left unattended while cooking and ovens and grills should be kept free of fat and grease.
Smokers should use a suitable ashtray, avoid smoking in bed and ensure everyone in the household knows what to do and how to exit in the event of a fire.
People can visit hwfire.org.uk/safety-and-advice/ for more advice and so they can carry out their own fire safety checks.
Those who qualify for a free Home Fire Safety Visit and want one should call the HWFRS Prevention team on 0800 0321155.
Government grants are also available to help with energy bill costs – go to helpforhouseholds.campaign.gov.uk for more.
