HOMEOWNERS are being asked to help others and themselves make sure their homes do not go up in smoke this winter.

The onset of the wintry weather means more people are turning on electric heaters, lighting candles and cooking more hot food.

London Fire Brigade says this leads to more accidental fires.

Its assistant commissioner for community safety, Andy Barrett, said: “Every winter Londoners die in house fires that could have been avoided.

“If you leave candles unattended or put electrical heaters near flammable material like curtains or clothes, this can lead to tragedy.

“We also hear far too often, about people who have got tucked up in bed with a cigarette and fallen asleep while it’s still lit.

“It’s very sad to see people losing their possessions or getting hurt in fires that could have been prevented by taking some very simple advice.”

Residents are advised to:

  • Fit a smoke alarm on each level of your home and check alarms regularly to make sure they work.
  • Plan an escape route so you know how you would leave your home if a fire started and make sure everyone you live with is aware of this plan.
  • Keep clothing or other objects away from electric heaters or fires.
  • Ensure all electrical appliances are in safe working order, replacing frayed cords and broken plugs and keeping appliances free from dust.
  • Make sure candles are used with caution and never left unattended.
  • Unless they are designed to be left on, always turn off electric blankets before getting into bed, and make sure your blanket is serviced regularly.
  • Put out cigarettes carefully – never smoke in bed (falling asleep while smoking is a major cause of fires).
  • Don’t forget – a smoke alarm can buy you valuable seconds to escape if a fire starts. Every home should have at least one alarm, checked every week to ensure it is working.

Mr Barrett added: “Winter is also a time where vulnerable people are at greater risk, and sadly many fire deaths involve older people who live alone or have reduced mobility.

“If you have older friends, neighbours or relatives why not pay them a visit and make sure they know how to protect their homes from fire?”

Find out what the weather is going to be by clicking here.