As the cold weather continues, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service is reminding members of the public and businesses of essential safety steps to stay safe and warm this winter.
Power Outages
Common solutions to power outages, like candles, portable heaters, and generators, can pose fire hazards. Follow these safety tips to protect your family, home, or business:
- Avoid Candles: Use LED battery-powered ones instead. If candles are necessary, keep them in sturdy holders, away from flammable materials, and never leave them unattended.
- Generator Safety: Use generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas, avoiding enclosed spaces like garages. Always follow manufacturer instructions and store any fuel safely away from generators and in approved containers.
- Heating Precautions: Use portable heaters with automatic safety shut-off features and keep them away from flammable items.
Outdoor safety
Stay safe when traveling or spending time outside:
- Road Users: Ensure tyres are winter-ready, and windows and windscreens are fully demisted for visibility.
- Cyclists: Wear visible reflective clothing, stick to main roads where possible, as they are more likely to have been gritted.
- Pedestrians: Wear visible clothing and footwear with good grip. Walk carefully on icy pavements and be mindful of hidden hazards.
- Stay Off the Ice: Never venture onto frozen water and keep pets and young children away from the edges.
Group Manager Paul Coppard said: "As temperatures drop, we urge everyone to take extra precautions to stay safe. Whether you’re at home, at work or outdoors, by following simple safety measures, you can reduce risks and protect yourself, your loved ones, and your property this winter.”
Know Who to Call
- Power Cuts: Call Freephone 105.
- Water Supply Issues: Visit www.water.org.uk/customers/find-your-supplier.
- Clearing Snow or Ice: www.gov.uk/clear-snow-road-path-cycleway.
- Feeling Unwell: Visit 111.nhs.uk or dial 111.
- Emergency: Dial 999.
- Support for the Homeless: www.streetlink.org.uk.
- Local Radio Updates: Tune into BBC Sussex (95.0-104.8MHz FM or bbc.co.uk/bbcsussex).
Home Safety
If you have any questions about fire safety in the home, we offer a free Home safety check service. If you would like to find out more you can:
- call us on 0800 177 7069
- or visit www.esfrs.org/hsv
Business Safety
Our staff at our Fire Safety Offices are able to provide guidance to make sure that your business complies with the requirements of the Fire Safety Regulations.
You can find out how to contact your local Fire Safety Office at: https://www.esfrs.org/fire-safety-offices
Other useful links
For more winter safety tips, visit the following resources: