Stay safe as the temperature drops this winter

22 June 2026

As the cooler weather sets in, many of us turn to heaters, electric blankets, hot water bottles and other warming products to stay cozy. These items can bring comfort during winter, but they also come with risks if not used correctly.

Keep your family safe by following our important safety reminders to help protect your household throughout the cooler months.

Children’s clothing

  • Pyjamas, robes, and other children’s sleepwear can ignite easily.
  • Always check the fire risk label and choose garments with lower flammability ratings.
  • Keep children well away from open flames and heaters.
  • Avoid loose fitting sleepwear.
  • Take care when buying pyjamas online or from overseas retailers that may not meet Australian safety standards.

Hot water bottles

  • Never fill a hot water bottle with boiling water. Use hot tap water instead to reduce the risk of burns.
  • Always use a cover or wrap the bottle in a towel.
  • Avoid direct contact with skin.

Wheat and heat packs

Wheat and heat packs can overheat if not used correctly.

  • Follow the recommended heating times.
  • Stop using the pack immediately if you notice a burning smell.
  • Allow the pack to cool completely before reheating.
  • Never place a heated pack on or in bedding as heat can build up and cause ignition.

Heaters

  • Place heaters on a stable, flat surface.
  • Keep them at least one metre away from clothing, bedding, curtains, furniture, and other flammable items.
  • Only use indoor heaters inside your home.
  • Do not use outdoor gas heaters or BBQs in enclosed spaces.
  • Check outdoor heaters for leaves, dust, or debris before use.
  • Never leave heaters running overnight or unattended.

Fireplaces

  • Make sure your chimney is clean and properly ventilated before use.
  • Use a protective mesh screen to stop sparks or burning wood escaping.
  • Never use petrol, oil, or kerosene to start a fire - this can cause dangerous flare-ups or explosions.
  • Switch off devices overnight or when not supervised.

Smoke alarms

Test your smoke alarms every month to ensure they are working properly.

Electric blankets

  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Check for frayed cords, exposed wires, or signs of wear.
  • Switch off before going to sleep.
  • Do not place heavy objects on top while in use.
  • Do not use electric blankets for babies.
  • Seek advice if you have diabetes or are pregnant.

Candles, matches, and lighters

  • Never leave open flames unattended.
  • Keep candles away from bedding, clothing, and curtains.
  • Supervise children at all times.
  • Store matches and lighters out of reach.

Mould

  • Cold weather can cause condensation on windows and walls, leading to mould growth.
  • Mould can affect your health.
  • Ventilate your home daily by opening windows where possible.
  • Clean mould as soon as you spot it.

For more guidance on safe mould removal, visit mould growth and your health on the Northern Territory Government website.

Portable generators

  • Always use generators outdoors to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
  • Install a battery-powered carbon monoxide alarm for extra protection.
  • Turn off and allow the generator to cool before refuelling.
  • Place it on a stable, dry surface under an open canopy.
  • Never handle with wet hands.

For more information on safe use of generators, visit NT WorkSafe website.

Stay informed with the latest winter safety advice on the Product Safety Australia website.

To keep up-to-date with important product safety information, you can also subscribe to Product Safety Australia’s email updates and recalls RSS feeds.