We begin to feel the impacts of the cold; temperatures have plummeted to record lows across the Northern Hemisphere, prompting many people to search for other means to heat their houses. Due to the high cost of energy, many people utilise gas appliances and fireplaces. Therefore, it never hurts to remember some precautions to avoid accidents that unfortunately occur every year and result in the death of entire families due to gas leaks that can cause a slow, imperceptible and painless death, or fires caused by fireplaces.

•  Make sure fireplaces or heaters are located in safe areas of the home, away from gas lines, curtains and furniture. 
• Avoid industrialized or chemically treated wood and instead use timber that is appropriate for burning in fireplaces or wood stoves. 
• Do not allow children to use fireplaces or wood stoves. 
• For fireplaces, use a metal screen with a mesh size of 2 to 5 mm to prevent sparks from spreading outside the burning area. 
• Check that the chimney installation is in good condition and in a safe place. 
• Excess firewood should not be placed in fireplaces or wood stoves. 
• Never leave the area without first ensuring that the fire is completely extinguished. 
• Keep air intakes open in areas with fireplaces, stoves and heaters. The air in these areas must be replenished to reduce the risk of mortality from carbon monoxide or possibly asphyxiation owing to oxygen deficiency in the surroundings. 
• When it comes to heaters, only buy approved models and check that the device does not require any repairs or maintenance before turning it on.
•  Gas heaters must be certified. 
• Do not use the heaters to dry clothes, utensils or similar. 
• Do not use alcohol or other fuels indoors. 

Keep safe and stay healthy! 

29th November 2023