Keep safe this winter

The winter months are a time for keeping warm, which means using products like heaters, wheat/heat packs, hot water bottles and electric blankets or sitting near a cosy fire. Safety risks are associated with many winter products; they could pose a fire hazard to your home if not careful. Winter is also a time to be aware of mould in your home, as well as the safety of children's clothing, which can be flammable.

Follow these important safety tips to help you warm up safely this winter.

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Learn more about the following safety issues to keep you and your family safe this winter.

Your heater should sit on a flat-level surface and be at least one metre away from combustible materials. Heaters designed for the outdoors must never be brought inside your home.

Before you light a fire to heat your home this winter, check that your chimney is clean and well-ventilated. A mesh screen should be placed in front of your fireplace to prevent sparks and wood from falling out.

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. If you have a smaller 'table top' style device, you should stop using it due to the safety risks of the device tipping and issues with refilling.

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.

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.

If you've had your smoke alarm for over 10 years, it's time for a replacement. Remember to change the batteries and test your smoke alarm each year.

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.

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.