Staying Safe During Power Cuts
During a power outage, portable heaters and generators can help keep you warm and connected. However, incorrect use can lead to fire, burns, electric shock, carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, or explosions.
Gas Space Heaters
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Choose a heater with a CE mark and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
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Use only in well-ventilated areas and keep a window slightly open.
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Keep at least 1 metre (3 feet) away from furniture, curtains, bedding and other flammable materials.
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Never leave a heater unattended or running while you sleep.
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Install and regularly test carbon monoxide and smoke alarms.
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Have heaters serviced annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
Warning signs of CO poisoning: headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion and fatigue. If symptoms occur, switch off the heater, move to fresh air and seek medical help.
Electric Space Heaters
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Plug directly into a wall socket. Never use extension leads or multi-socket adaptors.
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Check plugs, cables and the heater for damage before use.
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Keep at least 1 metre (3 feet) clear around the heater.
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Place on a stable, non-flammable surface.
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Turn off when leaving the room or going to bed.
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Never use to dry clothes or towels.
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Choose heaters with tip-over protection, overheat protection and a CE mark.
Generators
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Only use generators carrying a CE, UKCA or UKNI mark.
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Operate outdoors only, at least 6 metres (20 feet) from doors, windows and vents.
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Never connect a generator directly to a household socket.
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Use suitable outdoor extension leads and avoid overloading the generator.
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Allow the generator to cool before refuelling.
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Install CO alarms in nearby buildings and be alert to symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Diesel Space Heaters
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Use only in well-ventilated areas.
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Follow the manufacturer's instructions and use the correct fuel.
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Keep at least 1 metre (3 feet) from combustible materials.
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Turn off and allow the heater to cool before refuelling.
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Never leave running unattended or use in enclosed living spaces.
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Install a carbon monoxide alarm nearby.
Top Safety Tips
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Some skin creams and ointments (emollients) can make clothing, bedding and fabrics highly flammable. Keep heaters well away from people, clothing, furniture and soft furnishings.Maintain good ventilation
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Keep heaters away from combustible materials
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Never leave heaters unattended
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Install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
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Follow manufacturer instructions at all times
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Keep children and pets away from heaters and generators
For gas appliance servicing, always use a Gas Safe registered engineer and visit www.gassaferegister.co.uk for more information.