The winter months are a time for keeping warm which means making use of products like heaters, wheat/heat packs, hot water bottles and electric blankets or sitting near a cosy fire. There are safety risks associated with many winter products, and if not careful, they could pose a fire hazard to your home. Follow these important safety tips to help you warm up safely this winter.
Heaters
Your heater should sit on a flat level surface and be at least one metre away from combustible materials. It's essential that heaters designed for the outdoors are never brought inside your home.
Fireplaces
Before you light a fire to heat your home this winter, check that your chimney is clean and well ventilated. It's recommended that a mesh screen sits in front of your fireplace to prevent sparks and wood from falling out.
Fire pits
Make sure the fire pit is kept clear of structures and plant foliage and positioned on flat, hard level ground. Don’t place a fire pit on a flammable surface, such as timber decking or an outdoor rug, and don’t use a fire pit if it’s too windy. Remember to always watch children and pets around a fire pit.
Decorative alcohol fueled devices
These devices produce a flame using alcohol as fuel. They're mostly used for decoration but sometimes to add warmth. Never leave the device on overnight or unsupervised and keep it away from combustible materials. Only refill it once the flame is completely extinguished and the device is cool. And if you have a smaller 'table top' style device you should stop using it due to safety risks of the device tipping and issues with refilling.
Children’s nightwear
Children’s nightwear such as pyjamas and dressing gowns can be highly flammable. Keep kids away from open flames and heaters, avoid loose fitting sleepwear and be cautious of pyjamas bought online that may not comply with Australian mandatory safety standards.
Smoke alarms
If you’ve had your smoke alarm for more than 10 years then it’s time for a replacement. Don’t forget to change the batteries and test your smoke alarm each year.
Electric blankets
If you like to use an electric blanket to warm up your bed, read the manufacturer's instructions. If you've had the same blanket for a while, check that cords aren't frayed and that wires aren't worn out. You should always turn your electric blanket off before falling asleep and never place heavy items on top of the blanket when it is on.
Hot water bottles
Never use boiling water to fill up your hot water bottle. Always use hot tap water to avoid burning yourself. Make sure a hot water bottle is never placed directly on your skin - always use a fitted cover or wrap over the top. You should never leave a hot water bottle on one part of the body for more than 20 minutes.
Candles
If you enjoy lighting candles to create a sense of warmth at home, make sure open flames are never left unsupervised and they are kept away from any combustible materials - e.g. curtains, clothing and bedding. Always supervise children around open flames and ensure lighters and matches are kept out of reach.
Wheat/heat packs
Always allow the pack to cool before reheating it. Be sure to follow the heating instructions, and if you smell something burning then allow it to cool and dispose of the pack. You risk the heat pack igniting if you re-use it.
Mould
Condensation that builds up on walls and windows can lead to mould growth and cause nasty health problems. Open windows each day to ventilate your home and clean up any mould as soon as you notice it. Scrub mould off hard surfaces using soapy water and remove any residue caused by the scrubbing. Use a damp cloth or vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter. Dry the area then find and fix the source of the moisture.
More safety information
Get the latest winter safety tips on the Product Safety Australia website.
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