Stay warm safely this winter

As the weather gets colder, you might be making some changes at home to stay warm and make your home cosy for winter.

It’s important to stay safe while doing so. Here are some essential tips to help keep you and your home safe this winter.

Smoke alarms save lives

• Test your smoke alarms at least once a month to make sure they are working properly.
• If you have any issues with your smoke or heat alarms,please contact us on 0800 218 2000.
• If your alarm starts to bleep, it may have developed a fault or simply need new batteries, so please let us know if this happens.

Candle safety

• Only use candles when you are in the same room and can keep an eye on them.
• Always use candle holders and keep candles out of draughts and away from curtains and other materials that can catch fire.
• Keep matches, lighters and candles out of reach of children.
• For safer options, consider battery-powered candles. They reduce fire risk, last longer, and are better for the environment because you can replace or recharge the batteries.

Using portable heaters

• Do not use any form of gas heaters – they can be a fire and carbon monoxide risk.
• Keep heaters at a safe distance from curtains, furniture, and other objects.
• Never use heaters to dry clothes.
• Always unplug heaters when you leave the house or go to bed.
• Secure heaters to a wall to prevent them from being knocked over.

Electric blanket safety

• Never use hot water bottles with an electric blanket, even if it’s switched off.
• Unplug electric blankets before going to bed unless they have a thermostat for safe all-night use.
• Store electric blankets flat, rolled, or loosely folded to avoid damaging the internal wiring.
• Avoid buying second-hand blankets and replace blankets that are over 10 years old.
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Christmas lights

• Only use Christmas lights that carry the British Safety Standard mark.
• Turn off Christmas lights when leaving the house or going to bed.
• Avoid overloading sockets with multiple plugs.
• Regularly check lights for damaged cables and broken bulbs and replace them if necessary.

Keeping communal areas clear

• Keep all rubbish and personal belongings out of communal hallways, stairwells, and exits.
• Store rubbish in designated bins to prevent fire hazards and maintain clear escape routes.
• Report any blocked exits or overflowing bins to us.

Call 0800 218 2000 or email buildingsafety@salixhomes.co.uk to report it.

Keeping well and healthy

Winter bank holidays can be a difficult time. Health services come under increased pressure and we’re all more likely to see a dip in our health and wellbeing.

Salford City Council have put together resources to help you Get to Know Where to Go over the Christmas bank holiday: Get to know where to go – Greater Manchester Integrated Care Partnership