Protect your family this winter

With the cooler weather now upon us, our focus on keeping our homes warm 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 with many winter products and if not careful, they could pose a fire hazard to your home. 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.

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, 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.

Children’s clothing

Children’s nightwear such as pyjamas and dressing gowns can be highly flammable. Check the fire labelling on children’s nightwear to determine the fire risk rating for each garment. 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.

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.

Smoke alarms

If you’ve had your smoke alarm for more than 10 years, it’s time for a replacement. Don’t forget to test your smoke alarm every month and change the batteries each year.

Electric blankets

If you 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.

Wheat and heat packs

Be sure to follow the heating instructions, and if you smell something burning, allow it to cool and dispose of the pack. You risk the heat pack igniting if you re-use it. Always allow the pack to cool before reheating it again.

Candles

If you light 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 like curtains, clothing and bedding. Always supervise children around open flames and ensure lighters and matches are kept out of reach.

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