All heaters and fires are potential fire hazards. 

Electric heaters can also be electric shock hazards if not used properly. 

About two fires a day are started by heaters.

One third of electrical fires that resulted in a fatality involved heaters.

Most of these types of fires are preventable.

People with mobility issues are especially at risk of tripping or falling onto a heater – placing them at a safe distance is all the more important.

London Fire Brigade

Some types of heater also present a carbon monoxide risk which can make you sleepy and less able to escape. That is why it is so important to always fit a carbon monoxide alarm in rooms with solid fuel, gas or paraffin heaters.

Open fire

Wood stove

Log burner

Safety tips for log burners, wood stoves and open fires

Follow these simple rules to keep snug safely with a traditional fire:

• Keep chimneys and flues clean and well maintained.
• Always have your chimney swept by a specialist – at least once a year for coal, twice if burning logs.
• Make sure you use a fireguard to protect against flying sparks and hot embers.
• Before you go to bed, make sure fires or hot embers are under control and guarded.
• Store logs away from solid fuel burners – radiated heat can cause them to burn.
• Keep clothing and fabric well away from open fires and log burners.
• Watch out for children and pets – supervise them carefully, and use fire guards.

It is really important to fit a carbon monoxide alarm in all rooms containing solid fuel gas, or paraffin heaters. It’s also a good idea to familiarise yourself with the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning, and learn what to do if you suspect there may be a leak.