Fire service asks people to ‘save safely’ to avoid putting themselves at risk

As the weather starts to get cooler, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service is asking people to think about fire safety when saving money on their energy bills.

The Service is concerned that people may put themselves at additional risk as the cost-of-living increases.

As part of a new campaign called 'save safely' the Service is asking people to think now about preparing for winter, by doing three checks.

• Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detection. You should have working smoke alarms on every level of your home, as well as a carbon monoxide alarm in every room where there is fuel burned (this includes gas cookers, open fires, log burners).

• If you're planning on using a portable heater – get this out now and check it over. Check for damaged wiring and if anything doesn't look right, either dispose of it, or get it checked by a professional. An oil-filled radiator type heater is the safest type as these don't have any exposed heating elements.

• Complete an online fire safety check on their website – visit dsfire.gov.uk/homesafety for a simple online check of your home to help you to help yourself be safer from the risk of fire. If you're vulnerable or need more help, the fire service can come and visit your home to have a look around – this online check will start this process. People unable to access the internet can call 0800 05 02 999.

Group Manager, Ros Clarke, said: "We know this winter is going to be really tough for everyone. Every winter we see people making unsafe choices to stay warm, but we are worried this is going to be worse this year.

'We've previously had fires relating to people using old or damaged heaters, drying washing on heaters, or using candles. We've also had people using patio stoves indoors in a desperate attempt to stay warm. We know people are going to have tough choices to make due to finances, but we want people to make safety their first thought when it comes to saving money."

The fire service is offering advice and signposting support available in relation to staying warm and saving money this winter. Visit:;www.dsfire.gov.uk/safety/home/stay-warm-safely-winter.