Autumn fire safety advice issued

With energy prices rising by a fifth on last year, South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue (SYFR) are warning residents not to heat and light their homes with open fires, candles or naked flames.

SYFR, who have attended 23 accidental house fires caused by such equipment in the last six months, are expecting an increase as the weather turns colder and the nights draw in.

They recommend using a fire guard to protect against flying sparks, properly extinguishing embers before going to bed, keeping electric heaters away from curtains and furniture, and never using hot water bottles in the same bed as an electric blanket. Naked candle flames should never be left unattended and always placed on a heat resistant surface.

Diane Malpass, Station Manager in Community Safety, said: “Just asking yourself a few simple questions about the safety of the equipment before switching it on, might be enough to protect you and your family from a serious fire.”

Visit www.syfire.gov.uk for more information