The shorter days and rapidly cooling weather have prompted a new warning about the safety of household heating appliances.
Minister for Better Regulation Matt Kean said dodgy or worn out appliances could be dangerous or even fatal and people should check them before using them, this winter.
"Families are torn apart in house fires every winter, and it breaks my heart knowing they could have been prevented with a simple safety check," Mr Kean said.
"There is nothing better than rugging up with an electric blanket or huddling next to a heater during the colder months, but it’s important to look out for dangers.
"Hot water bottles can burst or leak, causing severe burns, faults and fraying cords on electric blankets can start fires and dust build-up in heaters can also be a fire hazard.
"As well as checking batteries in smoke detectors, checking heating appliances is a no-brainer ahead of winter."
Other important tips include:
Don’t use outdoor heating appliances inside;
Don’t place room heaters too close to furniture, clothing, furnishings, curtains or bedding; and,
Supervise children and pets around heating appliances at all times.
Mr Kean said all children’s nightwear/sleepwear must also carry fire risk labels.
"Children’s PJs should be made of material labelled ‘low fire danger’," Mr Kean said.
"Fair Trading inspectors do a wonderful job checking thousands of electrical and gas products each year, but they can’t be in every home to keep everyone safe."
Consumers can check safety approval marks and find other helpful winter warming hints via www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au.
