Clothes dryers
- Try a heat alarm in your laundry instead of a smoke alarm as you might get false alarms.
- The lint filter is cleaned before every use, to avoid lint build-up and risk of fire.
- The dryer isn’t overloaded.
- There is space around the dryer to allow for proper venting.
- The full cycle is used, including cool down.
- Remove lint from the clothes dryer filter after each use. Static electricity and build up of heat can cause dust, lint and chemical residue on clothing to catch fire.
- Ensure the dryer goes through the full cycle, including cool down, before you open it.
- Ensure there's proper ventilation and air space around the clothes dryer.
For more information, take a look at our smoke alarm guide.
Electric blankets
- Check for hotspots in your blanket by turning it on high for 15 mins, then switching it off and running your hand over the blanket
- Use electric blankets less than 5 years old
- Heavy objects are never placed on the bed while electric blanket is in use.
- If you use an electric blanket, make sure it lies flat on the bed and the controls or cords are not twisted or caught. Twisted cords are a common cause of electric blanket fires.
- Worn and old electric blankets can cause serious injury. At the first sign of wear, replace the blanket or have it checked by a qualified electrician.
- Never sleep with an electric blanket turned on, even on a low temperature. Always switch it off before you hop into bed.
- If storing an electric blanket off the bed during summer, roll it up rather than fold it.
For more information, take a look at our guide to staying safe in winter.