RESIDENTS are being urged not to take fire safety risks amid the cost of living crisis.

The warning comes from Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service during Home Fire Safety Week.

The week, an initiative from the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), aims to educate and raise awareness and covers a range of areas such as electrical safety, the dangers of illegal cigarettes and the offer of Safe and Well checks and fire safety advice.

The most recent statistics for England, which cover 2021, show 181 people lost their lives in accidental dwelling fires, an increase of 18 per cent on the previous year.

Safe & Well Manager for Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service Vikki Thomas said: “As the cost of living increases across the entire UK, we are offering help and advice to ensure the safety of everyone in their homes. This ranges from simple steps such as smoke detection and visually checking electrical items, to how fire services can assist people who are more vulnerable.

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“While we understand the pressures people are currently facing and affordability is a major factor for many, I am hoping that by giving practical help and advice, we can raise awareness and offer useful assistance. Prevention work is at the heart of all fire and rescue service work, and we are here to help.”

The NFCC has created an online home fire safety check tool which enables people to explore whether they – along with loved ones or neighbours – could be at greater risk from fire: https://www.safelincs.co.uk/hfsc/

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Check https://www.registermyappliance.org.uk/ to register your appliance and stay up to date on re-call information.

DWFRS is giving the following advice to help ensure residents are as safe as possible in their home:

• Switch off appliances at the plug where possible before you go to bed.

• Don't leave appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines running overnight or when the house is empty.

• If you have a recalled appliance or an appliance subject to a repair order - stop using it.

• Make sure it’s installed and maintained properly. This can be as simple as ensuring appliances aren’t sitting on power leads or not defrosting a freezer.

• Avoid inappropriate installation. Make sure appliances installed in garages and sheds are appropriate for outdoor use.

• Don't keep using appliances if they start to make unusual noises, smells or don't operate properly. Have them checked by a professional.

• Make sure you have working smoke alarms fitted on every floor of your home and test them regularly

• Have a planned escape route and make sure you and your family practice it regularly.

For more information on maintaining fire safety in the home, visit https://www.dwfire.org.uk/safety-at-home/