The colder months can be one of the more dangerous times of year for fires and burns so Consumer Protection is urging West Aussies to follow some simple precautions to help prevent injuries and keep your home safe.
As the cooler weather sets in, many of us turn to heaters, electric blankets, hot water bottles and fires to stay cosy. The colder months can be one of the more dangerous times of year for fires and burns so Consumer Protection is urging West Aussies to follow some simple precautions to help prevent injuries and keep your home safe.
More and more people are investing in a portable generator for when a dreaded blackout hits. While they do keep the fridge running and devices charged, they also come with serious risks if used incorrectly. Never use them inside or in a garage as that can be a carbon monoxide risk. And if you haven't already, install a battery-operated carbon monoxide alarm.
When it's time to refuel, turn the generator off and let it cool down as fuel spilt on hot engine parts could ignite. Also keep it out of the rain by placing it on a stable, dry surface under an open canopy, and never handle it with wet hands.
Remember to place heaters on a flat, stable surface and keep them at least one metre from flammable items like bedding, curtains and clothing. Outdoor gas heaters and BBQs should never be used in enclosed spaces. If you're using an outdoor heater, check it for leaves, dust, or debris that may have built up since last season. While it might be tempting to leave the heater on overnight or while you're out of the house, but this is a no-no to leave it unattended.
Before you make your bed warm and cosy, inspect electric blankets for frayed cords or damaged wires before use. Always turn them off before going to sleep and never place heavy items on them.
Don't land yourself in hot water this winter. If you're using a hot water bottle to stay warm, remember to fill it with hot tap water - not boiling water, and always use a cover or wrap to avoid burns. It's a smart idea to buy a new bottle every year as even if they seem in good condition on the outside, they may be damaged on the inside. Hot water bottles can burst or leak if they are old, used improperly or poorly manufactured and unfortunately incidents occur every year that land people in hospital with serious burns.
Children's nightwear such as pyjamas, oversized hoodies and dressing gowns can be highly flammable so check the fire labelling to understand the fire risk rating for each garment. It's always best to keep children away from heaters, fireplaces and open flames. It can be tempting to save a few dollars buying sleepwear from cheap overseas websites, but these may not meet Australian safety standards.
When was the last time you checked if the smoke alarms worked? This is your reminder to test them! Set yourself a reminder to test smoke alarms monthly, replace the battery every year, and replace the entire unit every 10 years. It could save your life.
Before using any winter product, make sure it hasn't been recalled by visiting www.productsafety.gov.au .
Whether it's switching on a heater, using an electric blanket or firing up a generator, following a few key safety steps can help prevent injuries and accidents at home. Learn more about winter safety - productsafety.gov.au/wellwinter
