Local authority leaders yesterday reminded residents to be careful when using candles for lighting or heating this Christmas.
Households looking for cheaper ways of lighting and heating their homes due to the cost-of-living crisis could be increasing the risk of fire, the Local Government Association (LGA) said.
The LGA urged people to take safety precautions including never leaving candles unattended and checking heating appliances are in working order.
They also reminded people to ensure flammable items such as furniture and drying clothes are placed away from heaters and fires, and to use the correct fuel for woodburning stoves and open fires, while ensuring chimneys are swept.
Care should also be taken when using electric heaters such as never leaving them unattended or powering them from an extension lead.
Households are also urged to check they have working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
Cllr Frank Biederman, chair of the Fire Services Management Committee at the LGA, said: ‘Many people are understandably seeking ways to reduce costs and save money as we try to manage soaring energy bills and the impact of inflation.
‘However, it is vital that this is not at the expense of staying safe.
‘We want to raise awareness of the dangers of cutting corners when it comes to lighting and heating our homes.
‘This is why we are urging people to prevent a tragedy by following a few simple safety steps, including making sure you have working smoke alarms in your home and test them regularly, which could save your or a loved one’s life.’
