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Every year 200 people die and 2,000 people are injured across Britain in fires that start in living rooms*. So, before you sit comfortably, read our top tips for staying safe in your lounge.

Power Points/Electrical

• Don't use electrical appliances with damaged cables;
• Don't overload sockets;
• Ensure your extension cable is in good condition and has the correct fuse for the appliance;
• REMEMBER unplug electrical appliances if you are not using them.

More about electrical fire safety tips >>

Heaters and Fires

• When drying clothes keep them a safe distance from heaters and fires;
• All fires and heaters should have guards.
• Always position heaters so the back is against a wall and they are facing a room. If possible, secure them to the wall to prevent them from falling over.
• Switch heaters off if you're not in the room and also when you go to bed.
• Portable gas heaters should have the cylinders stored and changed outside or in a well ventilated atmosphere.
• Both gas and paraffin heaters should only be used in a well ventilated area. They consume oxygen from the atmosphere and can cause death by asphyxiation (suffocation), if not adequately ventilated.

More safety information on heaters and fires >>

Candles

• Always stand candles in a flame proof container. Never place lit candles near flammable material or where they can be knocked over.
• Always extinguish candles when leaving the room.
• It only takes a moment's distraction for a fire to start - so keep candles out of reach of children and pets.

More safety information on candles >>

General Safety

• Empty waste bins regularly;
• Beware of trip hazards on the floor;
• Keep drinks and other liquids well away from electrical appliances;
• Never place a mirror over a fire;
• Check that your furniture has the fire resistant permanent label.

Smoking - Safety Tips

• Every three days someone dies from a fire caused by a cigarette.
• Remember that cigarettes are hotter than you think and can burn in temperatures of over 700 degrees!

Read our essential tips on staying safe whilst smoking >>

For more information about fire safety or to book a FREE home fire risk assessment visit our  Home Saftey Check  section.

Last update: 08/01/2013 09:59:28