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Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service is encouraging residents to Be Winter Ready by taking a few simple steps now to help keep themselves, their families and their homes safe when colder weather arrives.

As part of its annual Heating and Electrical Safety Campaign, the service is reminding people to think ahead before switching on heating systems, using portable heaters or relying on electrical appliances more frequently during the winter months.

The campaign follows an analysis of accidental dwelling fires across Lancashire, which found that 567 heating and electrical-related fires occurred between October and February over the last three years.

Cooking appliances were the leading cause of incidents, accounting for almost a third of fires, followed by heating equipment, electrical wiring and household appliances such as tumble dryers.

With many households looking for affordable ways to stay warm this winter, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service is encouraging residents to use heating and electrical items safely, ensure smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are working, and check that appliances are in good condition before they are needed.

Kevin Warwick, Service Delivery Manager, said:

"As the temperatures begin to fall, many people will start thinking about how they keep their homes warm during the winter months. Taking a few simple precautions now can help prevent fires and keep you and your loved ones safe.

 "Our data shows that hundreds of heating and electrical-related fires occur every winter across Lancashire. Many of these incidents can be avoided by carrying out basic safety checks, using appliances correctly and making sure smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are working.

 "Being Winter Ready is about planning ahead. Spending a few minutes now could make a real difference in protecting your home and family when the colder weather arrives."

Top winter safety tips

Residents are encouraged to:

· Test smoke alarms regularly and make sure there is at least one on every level of the home.

· Check carbon monoxide alarms and fit them where required.

· Avoid overloading electrical sockets and extension leads.

· Inspect electrical appliances for signs of damage before use.

· Use portable heaters safely and keep them away from furniture, bedding and curtains.

· Have boilers, chimneys and heating systems serviced and maintained.

· Follow guidance when using electric blankets, hot water bottles and log burners.

· Never leave cooking unattended.

Extra support for vulnerable residents

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service is also encouraging anyone who may need additional support during a power cut to sign up to the Priority Services Register through their energy supplier or network operator. The free service provides extra assistance to eligible customers, including older people, people with disabilities, those with medical needs and other vulnerable residents.

Find out more

A few minutes spent checking appliances, testing alarms and planning ahead can help reduce the risk of fire and provide peace of mind throughout the winter months. For more information on heating and electrical safety, visit the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service website.