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Bedtime Routine

Around half of all deaths caused by fires in the home happen between 10pm and 8am. There are some simple checks you can carry out before you go to bed to protect yourself and your home from fire.

 

Safety tips at bedtime include:

 

  • Switch off and unplug electrical equipment – only leave on appliances that are designed to be left on, like the fridge or your DVD recorder.
  • Check the cooker – make sure the grill, hobs and oven are all turned off. 
  • Don’t leave the washing machine, tumble dryer or dishwasher on. Their high speed of operation, friction and motors mean they can be a fire risk. 
  • Turn heaters off and put a guard in front of an open fire.
  • Check candles – they can go on smouldering and start a fire. Double check that they are out and never leave one burning when you go to sleep. 
  • Put cigarettes right out – make sure cigarettes and pipes are out, wetting them to be sure. Never smoke in bed.
  • Check your escape route – it should be clear of obstacles. Make sure the keys are where they are meant to be.
  • Close doors – this can slow down the spread of a fire. 
  • Turn off your electric blanket – unless you are absolutely sure it can be left on safely, for example if it has a thermostat.

 

 

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