Fire risks rise significantly during the colder months. Increased use of electrical heaters, festive decorations, and open flames all adds to potential hazards at home and in the workplace. Fortunately, most winter fires are preventable with simple checks, maintenance, and awareness training. At Rescue2, we help individuals and organisations stay safe through professional fire safety training, audits, and practical emergency response planning.

Why Fire Risks Increase in Winter

Every year, fire services across the UK respond to a spike in incidents during the winter period. According to official data from the Home Office, UK Fire and Rescue Services attended 600,185 incidents in the year ending December 2024, of which 136,702 were fires.


Although overall fire numbers have slightly fallen year on year, the causes remain consistent: heaters placed too close to furniture, overloaded plug sockets, unattended cooking, and poorly maintained chimneys. In the same period, there were 204 fire-related fatalities in dwelling fires in England.

Seasonal behaviour changes, including the use of candles, log burners, electric blankets, and festive lighting, all contribute to the higher risk profile. Many of these fires are entirely avoidable through regular checks, proper maintenance, and fire awareness.

Key Winter Fire Hazards You Must Know

Electrical Heaters, Decorations, and Overloaded Sockets

Portable heaters, Christmas lights, and power hungry appliances all increase electrical load on sockets and extension leads. Overheating cables or damaged insulation can quickly cause ignition.

Follow these steps:

  • Always purchase heaters and lights from reputable suppliers with a UKCA mark.
  • Keep portable heaters at least one metre away from curtains and furniture.
  • Do not dry clothes on or near a heater.
  • Avoid overloading plug sockets or trailing multiple extensions.
  • Unplug electrical equipment when not in use.

Electrical safety guidance: Guidance | Electrical Safety First

Fireplaces, Chimneys, and Open Flames

An open fire or wood burning stove adds comfort and warmth but must be maintained properly. Chimneys blocked by soot or creosote can catch fire when temperatures rise.

Tips for prevention:

  • Have your chimney swept by a qualified professional at least once a year.
  • Always use a fireguard in front of an open flame.
  • Dispose of ashes safely once cooled, ideally in a metal bin outside.
  • Keep flammable decorations, furniture, and kindling well away from the fireplace.

Further information: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/fire-safety-guidance

Heating Appliances and Flammable Materials

During colder months, small electric radiators and fan heaters become common in offices, warehouses, and homes. Poor positioning or damaged wiring can cause serious fires.

Key precautions include:

  • Inspecting heaters regularly for wear or damage.
  • Never using them near fabrics or paper.
  • Turning off heaters before leaving a room or going to sleep.
  • Keeping heaters off unstable surfaces and away from water.

Cooking and Festive Food Preparation

Kitchen fires remain one of the most frequent domestic hazards. Unattended pans, frying oil, and overloaded cooking appliance sockets create high risk conditions.

Simple steps to stay safe:

  • Never leave hot pans unattended.
  • Keep tea towels and paper towels away from hobs.
  • Turn the cooker rings off immediately after use.
  • Use timers to prevent food from burning in the oven.
  • Keep children and pets away from cooking zones.

HSE catering safety guidance: Catering and hospitality – HSE

Practical Steps to Prevent Fire at Home or Work

Install and Maintain Smoke Alarms

Smoke alarms save lives. The presence of a working alarm has been shown to reduce the risk of death in a house fire by more than 25 percent.

Best practice:

  • Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home or workplace.
  • Fit alarms in hallways, landings, and sleeping areas.
  • Test monthly and replace batteries annually.
  • Replace units every ten years or sooner if faulty.

More information: https://www.manchesterfire.gov.uk/your-safety/fire-safety/smoke-and-heat-alarms/

Keep Fire Extinguishers and Blankets Accessible

While smoke alarms alert you, extinguishers and blankets help control small fires before they spread.

Ensure that:

  • Extinguishers are suitable for the environment (e.g., CO₂ for electrical fires, foam for combustibles).
  • They are serviced annually by a competent technician.
  • Fire blankets are available in kitchens and staff rooms.

Government fire safety guidance: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/fire-safety-guidance

Close Internal Doors Before Bedtime

Closing doors slows fire spread and reduces smoke damage. A closed door can prevent the room temperature from rising above survivable levels for several minutes, giving occupants more time to escape.
Consider developing a bedtime routine that includes checking all doors, appliances, and plugs.

Maintain Chimneys, Gutters, and External Areas

Chimney fires often start from a build up of soot or unburned fuel. Gutters filled with dry leaves can also accelerate the spread of flames.

  • Schedule chimney inspections at least once annually.
  • Clean gutters of leaves and debris before lighting outdoor fireplaces or barbecues.
  • Store firewood and fuel away from the main building.

Follow Best Practice with Electrical Equipment

The Electrical Safety Council advises unplugging decorative lights overnight and using timers for exterior displays.

  • Replace damaged bulbs immediately.
  • Never connect multiple high wattage decorations to one socket.
  • Keep leads away from water and frost.

Guidance: Electrical Safety First

How Rescue2 Can Help

Rescue2 supports homeowners, landlords, and commercial operators in improving fire safety awareness and compliance. Our training focuses on identifying, preventing, and responding to fire hazards across all environments.

Our services include:

  • Fire Safety Awareness Training for employees and residents
  • Fire Warden and Evacuation Training for Workplaces
  • Confined Space and Hot Work Safety for Industrial Settings
  • Risk Assessments and Safety Audits
  • Emergency Response and Rescue Cover

Every course is delivered by experienced emergency service professionals who understand the realities of fire prevention and control.

For details on available training, visit: https://www.rescue2.co.uk/training/training-courses/

Common Questions About Winter Fire Safety

How often should smoke alarms be tested?

Smoke alarms should be tested once a month by pressing the test button and replaced every ten years. Battery operated units may need batteries changed annually.

Do portable heaters cause many house fires?

Yes. Portable heaters are one of the top three causes of domestic fires in winter. Always keep them clear of fabrics and switch them off before sleeping.

Is it safe to leave Christmas lights on overnight?

No. Even low voltage LED lights generate heat. Always switch them off when leaving the house or going to bed.

How do I create a fire escape plan?

Identify at least two exit routes per level, keep them clear, and ensure everyone knows where to meet outside. Practise the plan twice a year.

Does Rescue2 offer fire training for businesses?

Yes. We provide bespoke fire safety and emergency response training for organisations of any size, ensuring staff are confident in evacuating, using extinguishers, and implementing prevention techniques.

Ready to Improve Your Fire Safety This Winter?

Preparation prevents tragedy. Whether at home or work, small steps such as testing alarms, maintaining chimneys, and ensuring electrical safety make a huge difference.

If you need expert fire safety training or on site support, Rescue2 is here to help.

📞 01903 871 105
 ✉️ training@rescue2.co.uk
 📍 Rescue2 Ltd, The Old Stables, Decoy Lane, Arundel Road, Poling, West Sussex BN18 9QA