DEVON Fire and Rescue Service has issued a warning to West Devon homeowners to remember to keep safe as well as warm in the coming months.
?We want to be warm this winter, especially at home, but we must avoid tragedy,? warns community safety officer Dave Powlesland. The service wants to make people aware of the dangers of misusing badly maintained appliances, which could easily start a fire and cost lives.
Devon Fire and Rescue Service recommend having your electric blanket inspected at least every three years to make sure it is safe. Home-owners are also advised to take great care when using electric or gas heaters this winter.
?Many people think that the noise of a fire and the smell of smoke will alert them, but it doesn?t always work out that way.
?In fact, if a fire starts while you are asleep, the effects of the smoke could mean you would never know a thing about it. Unless of course you have a smoke alarm, which we would strongly recommend,? added Mr Powlesland.
Anyone wishing to obtain further fire safety advice should contact the Devon Fire and Rescue Service helpline on 01392 872288.