Busy schedules may have been the cause of more than 2,200 electrical-related fires across Greater Manchester in the past year, as mobile chargers, hair dryers and irons are consistently left plugged in.
In a recent example, a family of five were treated for smoke inhalation after a house fire caused by a mobile phone charger on May 30.
The family included children aged 16, 11 and six, all of whom had breathed in smoke.
Many cooking appliances were also responsible for last year’s fires, including dishwashers, fridges and freezers.
Chairman of the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS), Councillor David Acton, warns of the dangers of electrical equipment and urges residents to take extra care.
He said: “Anything that can heat up has the potential to be involved in a fire if it’s not used correctly, keep an eye out for hot plugs or sockets, scorch marks or flickering light.
“Never get electrical appliances wet and don’t put things on top of the television such as vases or candles.”
Cllr Acton highlighted the necessity of having a working smoke alarm, adding that it could save lives.
He said: “Having a working smoke alarm will alert you to a fire in your home if you do have one – it could give you vital seconds to get out of the house safety.”
For further advice on fire safety in home, visit the GMFRS website http://www.manchesterfire.gov.uk/fire_safety_advice/home_fire_safety.aspx
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