Stay safe and warm this winter

Published: 08 November 2022

Below is a summary of top tips from the Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RFBRS) - the full guidance may be found in RBFRS's Fire Safety in the Winter leaflet.

• When using an open fire, always use a fireguard to protect against flying sparks and make sure embers are put out properly before going out or to bed
• Make sure electric heaters are unplugged if you go out or when you go to bed
• Keep heaters away from curtains and furniture and do not use them for drying clothes
• Use gas or paraffin heaters only in well-ventilated areas
• Unplug electric blankets before getting into bed, unless they have a thermostat control for safe all-night use
• Never use a hot water bottle in a bed with an electric blanket, even if the blanket is switched off
• Make sure chimneys, flues, heaters and blankets are all properly maintained and safe to use
• Keep a torch to hand for use in the event of a power cut or failure