Warning over winter safety

THE elderly are being advised to take care with heating appliances and electric blankets to avoid electrical fires this winter. The warning comes from Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service which believes older people are in the high-risk group for becom

THE elderly are being advised to take care with heating appliances and electric blankets to avoid electrical fires this winter.

The warning comes from Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service which believes older people are in the high-risk group for becoming a victim of an accidental fire in the home because of health problems or reduced mobility.

In 2005, Cambridgeshire had 118,900 residents over the age of 60 and, in 2003, the highest fire fatality rate nationally occurred in people aged over 80.

Divisional fire officer Dave Richardson said: "We are very concerned about elderly people, especially those living alone, and the heating appliances that they use.

"We want to make sure that everyone can keep warm safely. We can come to people's houses and give them fire safety advice, as well as fitting smoke alarms if they are required."

Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service is urging elderly people to make sure their electric blankets are switched off before they go to sleep, that the blankets are regularly serviced, and that portable heaters conform to British standards.

INFORMATION: For further details, contact your local fire station on 01480 444666.