Public reminded to stay warm safely this winter
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.
