Fire safety in the bedroom

The bedroom is a place where we feel completely safe. When we sleep we are not alert to danger. This means that when we go to bed we should do so in the knowledge that we have done everything to ensure that our home is safe.

General

• never smoke in bed particularly when tired or on medication
• if you do smoke in the bedroom empty the ashtray when finished
• make sure that candles are only used in proper candleholders and placed on a hard surface
• never use candles if you are likely to fall asleep
• keep candles away from curtains, bedding, clothes
• never use candles as a night light for children. Use a low watt mains or battery light
• never cover a light to make it dimmer, fit a lower watt bulb. Ensure that all unnecessary electrical appliances are unplugged before going to sleep
• never place a portable heater close to a bed
• always have a torch available in your bedroom for emergencies
• always have a house phone or mobile phone beside the bed in case of an emergency
• never leave your mobile phone charging overnight or when you go out

Electric Blankets

• make sure that your electric blanket has an EN label
• make sure that it has an overheat protector to prevent the blanket from overheating
• regularly check the blanket for wear and tear particularly the electric leads and plug
• never use a blanket that has damage or scorch marks on it
• keep the blankets dry and when storing for the summer roll them up to prevent creasing
• if an electric blanket gets wet, dry it completely before using it again
• tie the electric under blankets to the mattress to prevent creasing
• adhere strictly to the manufacturer's instructions
• never use hot water bottles and electric blankets together
• make sure that all electric leads hang freely over the side of the bed
• unplug the blanket before getting into bed unless it is designed for all night use
• ensure electric under blankets or over blankets are only used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions
• if in doubt about the condition of your electric blanket have it checked or replaced