Homepage/Our Services/Healthy, Wealthy and Wise
Safety Checks
We all know that it’s important for people with a SCI to keep warm, especially
in the chilly winter months, but it’s also important to do this safely.
Here are few simple checks:
1. SMOKE
Silent and fast spreading, in most house fires smoke is a bigger killer then the
fire. That is why it is important to check your smoke alarm regularly
2. CARBON MONOXIDE
Sometimes called the silent killer this gas is colourless and odourless but can
be fatal. Often caused by gas fires or those that use solid fuel it is important
to get your heating appliances, including boilers and chimneys, regularly
serviced. Also check that internal and external air vents have not been blocked
or covered accidentally.
Carbon monoxide build up can be spotted through a colour change in a gas flame
(usually from blue to orange) but the best way of checking for carbon monoxide
is to get a carbon monoxide detector.
3. GAS
It is important to make sure that the gas appliances around the house are well
maintained. It is important to make sure that new items are safe and when buying
you should check products have the British Standards Safety Mark or British Seal
of Approval.
If at anytime you suspect a gas leak in your house you should open the windows
and call the gas supplier. It is important to not use switches or use a naked
flame as this could ignite the gas.
4. ELECTRIC BLANKETS
An excellent ways to warm in bed they are responsible for around 1000 fires a
year. Electric blankets should be fitted under the bed clothes and to follow the
manufacturers instructions regarding fitting and storing.
It is important that you make sure your blanket is unsoiled and dry and to check
that there are no scorch marks on it.
Many of the fires caused by electric blankets are caused by those which are over
10 years old so make sure you get your blanket checked by a professional
electrician, this should be done roughly every three years.
5. FIRES
Whether electric, gas or solid fuel a fire can be a hazard.
To make sure your fire is safe:
- Make sure the appliance is fit for purpose, whether that's checking the wires
and pipes or having the chimney swept.
- Never leave flammable objects, such as clothes, papers or blankets, on or over
the fire or in a place where they can fall against the fire.
- It is important to not sit any closer to a fire then 1 meter (3 feet)
- If it is a portable fire make sure it is not positioned where it could be
knocked over.
Back to Winter MOT page
Back to Ageing with SCI page