Cosy but dangerous? Experts warn of winter hazards looming in Aussie bedrooms
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As the mercury drops, many Australians reach for their trusty heaters, electric blankets, and hot water bottles.
Yet, despite the warm comfort it could bring, a hidden danger could turn a cosy winter's night into a devastating tragedy.
Authorities have sounded the alarm this winter, urging Australians to be extra vigilant when it comes to the electric products that keep homes warm.
Just ask 92-year-old Wal Clarke from Daceyville, Sydney, who’s had firsthand experience with these products.
Wal and his partner Maria's lives were turned upside down when a fire tore through their home last May.
Maria, home alone and fast asleep, was jolted awake by their home's smoke alarm.
While she managed to escape the blaze, their beloved dog did not survive.
'The fireman actually found Maria at the back door,' Wal shared in an interview.
'At that stage, they think she only had one minute to live.'
Fire investigators believed that an overloaded power board that made contact with their bedding sparked the inferno.
'It is so easy,' Wal reflected, a sobering reminder of how quickly things can go wrong.
Sadly, Wal and Maria's story is far from unique.
Fire and Rescue New South Wales stated that winter is their busiest season for house fires.
The usual suspects often involve overloaded powerboards, cheap or faulty electric blankets, and dodgy heaters.
'People have got power pulling out of all outlets of the power board—it's a recipe for disaster. They do catch fire,' Fire and Rescue NSW Inspector Adam Dewberry warned.
Electric blankets, especially older or bargain-bin models, are a real hazard if not properly maintained or if they do not meet Australian safety standards.
While many Australians love a good deal, the cheapest heating products often lead to some expensive mistakes.
Consumer group CHOICE issued an urgent warning for Aussies this winter: invest in quality products and steer clear of cheap imitations.
The consumer advocacy group tested various electric blankets just in time for the cold season.
They did not just look at the blanket's functionality but also considered safety and running costs.
Here are some of their top picks for safe, reliable electric blankets:
'You're going to get that reassurance that you're putting something safe in your home—which is the most important thing,' Harvey Norman's Skyler Talbot stated.
'It's going in your room, a kid's room—you don't want to take a risk on something like that.'
To help keep you and your loved ones safe this winter, here are some essential tips from the experts:
However, when it comes to electric blankets, heaters, and powerboards, your safety is priceless.
Have you ever had a close call with a faulty electric blanket or heater? Do you have any winter safety tips to share with your fellow SDC members? We'd love to hear your stories and advice in the comments below.
READ MORE: Slash Your Heating Bills This Winter With These Genius Eco-Friendly Warming Hacks!
Yet, despite the warm comfort it could bring, a hidden danger could turn a cosy winter's night into a devastating tragedy.
Authorities have sounded the alarm this winter, urging Australians to be extra vigilant when it comes to the electric products that keep homes warm.
Just ask 92-year-old Wal Clarke from Daceyville, Sydney, who’s had firsthand experience with these products.
Wal and his partner Maria's lives were turned upside down when a fire tore through their home last May.
Maria, home alone and fast asleep, was jolted awake by their home's smoke alarm.
While she managed to escape the blaze, their beloved dog did not survive.
'The fireman actually found Maria at the back door,' Wal shared in an interview.
'At that stage, they think she only had one minute to live.'
Fire investigators believed that an overloaded power board that made contact with their bedding sparked the inferno.
'It is so easy,' Wal reflected, a sobering reminder of how quickly things can go wrong.
Sadly, Wal and Maria's story is far from unique.
Fire and Rescue New South Wales stated that winter is their busiest season for house fires.
The usual suspects often involve overloaded powerboards, cheap or faulty electric blankets, and dodgy heaters.
'People have got power pulling out of all outlets of the power board—it's a recipe for disaster. They do catch fire,' Fire and Rescue NSW Inspector Adam Dewberry warned.
Electric blankets, especially older or bargain-bin models, are a real hazard if not properly maintained or if they do not meet Australian safety standards.
While many Australians love a good deal, the cheapest heating products often lead to some expensive mistakes.
Consumer group CHOICE issued an urgent warning for Aussies this winter: invest in quality products and steer clear of cheap imitations.
The consumer advocacy group tested various electric blankets just in time for the cold season.
They did not just look at the blanket's functionality but also considered safety and running costs.
Here are some of their top picks for safe, reliable electric blankets:
- Breville BodyZone – Top performer, has a winter running cost of $18
- Sunbeam Sleep Express – High safety rating: has a running cost of $23
- Tontine Soft and Cosy – Budget-friendly and safe for the running cost of $11
- Dreammaker Fully Fitted Bamboo – $14 running cost over winter
- Kmart Anko Electric Heated Topper – Low-cost and rated safe with a running cost of $12
'You're going to get that reassurance that you're putting something safe in your home—which is the most important thing,' Harvey Norman's Skyler Talbot stated.
'It's going in your room, a kid's room—you don't want to take a risk on something like that.'
To help keep you and your loved ones safe this winter, here are some essential tips from the experts:
- Never overload power boards. Only plug in one high-wattage appliance per board.
- Replace electric blankets older than 10 years. The wiring and insulation degrade over time, increasing the risk of fire.
- Check cords and switches for frays or wear. If you spot any damage, replace the item immediately.
- Avoid using second-hand or untested heating products. You can't be sure of their safety history.
- Always switch appliances off before sleeping. Don't leave electric blankets or heaters running overnight.
- Install smoke alarms in every bedroom and living area and test them monthly.
- Keep heaters and electric blankets away from flammable materials like curtains, bedding, and clothing.
- Don't run cords under carpets or rugs, as this could make them overheat.
- Have a fire escape plan and make sure everyone in your home knows it.
However, when it comes to electric blankets, heaters, and powerboards, your safety is priceless.
READ MORE: Slash Your Heating Bills This Winter With These Genius Eco-Friendly Warming Hacks!
