Portable heater warning

Strathclyde Fire & Rescue can confirm that during this prolonged cold spell, there have been several recent fire incidents involving portable heaters.

Members of the public are asked to be particularly careful when using these appliances and are offered the following advice:

• Don't leave a heater unattended while it's switched on
• Switch off before you go to bed
• If it's really very cold, use a heater controlled by a thermostat on low power overnight
• Don't dry clothes on any portable heater
• Don't dry clothes near electric 'bar' type fires or portable gas heaters
• Keep furniture and other flammable items well clear - at least 1m (3 feet)
• Have gas heaters serviced by a qualified engineer once a year
• Don't trail heater flexes where someone could trip over them
• Electric heaters need lots of power - plug them straight in to a wall socket, not into an adaptor or power strip
• The public is also asked to be vigilant not only for themselves but also on behalf of neighbours particularly if they are older, live alone or have mobility or other health issues

If you hear a smoke alarm actuating dial 999 immediately.

Research shows that, where working smoke alarms are fitted, there is much less chance of injury to householders, the alarm is raised much quicker and the fire is likely to be contained.

If you wish a free smoke alarm and Home Fire Safety Visit, call our freefone number on 0800 0731 999.