Did you know that one in six house fires start in the bedroom? Scary – considering it can take as little as 30 seconds for a small flame to become an out of control fire.
Use the checklist below to keep your bedrooms safe from a fire.
Install smoke detectors
Photoelectric smoke alarms are best as they are more likely to detect fires quicker than most other smoke alarms.
Install them in every bedroom.
If it’s not possible to install one in every room, then install a photoelectric smoke alarm in the hallway within 3 metres of the bedrooms.
Check the lights
Use the correct bulb size and wattage in lamps and light fittings.
Keep a torch, or your phone with a torch, next to your bed in case of an emergency.
Use candles safely
Never leave lit candles unattended, even if it’s just for a couple of seconds.
Place them on a surface that won’t catch fire, like a ceramic plate or special candle holder.
Keep them away from the kids, along with any fire starters (lighters, matches, etc).
Check your electric blanket
Make sure it lies flat on the bed and the controls and cords are not twisted – twisted cords are a common cause of electric blanket fires.
Replace your worn and old electric blanket, or get it checked by a qualified electrician.
Turn off your electric blanket before you go to sleep.
When storing your electric blanket, roll it rather than fold it.
Get yourself protected with our Home & Contents policies.
