Your Fire Safety To-Do List: A quick checklist for Northland homes to stay safe and warm this winter
As the temperature drops and we start reaching for the heaters and electric blankets, fire risks in our home start to rise. In winter, house fires are more common, often caused by heating, electrical faults, or unattended fires.
Now’s the time to get ahead of fire safety risks in your home. Here’s Fireco’s practical fire safety checklist to help Northland homeowners prepare their homes for the cooler months ahead.
1. Test All Smoke Alarms
Consider smoke alarms are your first line of defence against fire emergencies. Make sure:
- You have a working smoke alarm in every bedroom, hallway, and living area
- Alarms are tested monthly (press and hold the test button)
- Batteries are replaced at least once a year, unless it’s a 10-year sealed unit
Both Fireco & Fire and Emergency NZ recommend photoelectric smoke alarms for the best protection. If you’re still relying on older models, upgrade your smoke alarms to photoelectric this winter.
2. Clean Your Chimney or Wood Burner Flue
If you use a fireplace or wood burner, a build-up of soot and creosote can cause chimney fires. Clean out the flue or hire a professional chimney sweep before the first fire of the season.
- Clear ashes safely and regularly
- Use dry wood only
- Don’t leave the fire unattended
3. Check Your Electric Blankets
Electric blankets are cosy, but can become dangerous if damaged. Each winter inspect them carefully for signs of wear and tear:
- Look for frayed cords or scorch marks
- Make sure the wiring isn’t kinked
- Replace any blanket older than 5 years
- Always turn it off before sleeping
4. Be Smart with Heaters and Power Boards
Heaters and overloaded plugs are a major winter fire hazard. Try to follow the “Heater Metre Rule”:
- Keep all heaters at least 1 metre away from curtains, bedding, and furniture
- Don’t dry clothes directly on or near a heater
- Don’t overload power boards – use surge protectors and only plug in one high-wattage appliance at a time
- Turn off heaters and electric devices when you leave the house
5. Check Your Fire Safety Equipment
Make sure your home is equipped with:
- A working fire extinguisher (and you know how to use it)
- A fire blanket in the kitchen
- Easily accessible emergency contacts
Not sure what you need? Fireco supplies and services fire extinguishers, fire blankets, and smoke alarms, trusted by homes and businesses across Northland.
Stay Safe This Winter with Fireco
The key to fire safety is preparation, and a few quick checks now can help prevent devastating accidents later.
If your home needs:
- Smoke alarm upgrades
- Fire extinguishers or fire blankets
- Friendly, local advice
Or all of the above, then we’re here to help!
Get in touch with our team of fire safety experts today for a safer winter.
