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Winter often means heaters working overtime, candles being used during power outages, and families spending longer indoors trying to stay warm. Unfortunately, this is also a time when house fires become more common.

In many cases, fires start because of simple everyday habits people do not think much about. A heater pushed too close to the curtains, a candle forgotten during a power outage, or too many plugs running from one outlet can quickly become dangerous.

Heaters Too Close to Furniture

One of the biggest winter fire risks is placing heaters too close to beds, curtains, couches, clothing, or carpets. Heaters can overheat or tip over unexpectedly. If something flammable is nearby, a fire can spread within minutes. Heaters should always be placed on a stable surface and switched off before going to sleep or leaving the room.

Overloaded Plugs and Extension Leads

During winter, many households rely on extra appliances to stay warm. Heaters, electric blankets, kettles, chargers, and lights are often used at the same time, putting extra strain on plugs and extension cords.

Damaged electrical cords and overloaded multiplugs can easily overheat, increasing the risk of an electrical fire.

Warning signs should never be ignored, including:

• Sparks from plugs.
• Burning smells.
• Hot plug points.
• Flickering lights.
• Tripping power switches.

Candles During Power Outages

Candles are still commonly used during power outages, but they are also one of the most underestimated fire hazards in the home. A candle placed too close to curtains, bedding, paper, or furniture can start a fire very quickly. The risk becomes even greater if someone falls asleep or leaves the room. Candles should always be placed in stable holders and kept away from anything that can catch fire. Battery-powered lights or rechargeable lamps are a much safer option.

Unattended Cooking Fires

Winter often means more cooking at home, from warm meals and soups to late-night cups of tea or coffee. But kitchens can quickly become dangerous when cooking is left unattended.

A pot forgotten on the stove or oil overheating in a pan can easily ignite a fire in a matter of minutes. It is always safer to remain nearby while cooking, especially when frying food or using high heat.

Electric Blankets Need Regular Checks

Electric blankets can be helpful during freezing nights, but old or damaged blankets can pose a danger. Blankets with exposed wires, burn marks, damaged cords, or unusual smells should not be used. Electric blankets should also be switched off before falling asleep unless the manufacturer specifically states they are safe for overnight use.

Every Home Should Have an Escape Plan

Few families ever consider what they would do if a fire were to start in the middle of the night. Simple planning can save lives. Families should know how to get out quickly, where keys are kept, and where to meet outside if an evacuation is needed. Smoke alarms can also provide valuable early warning while there is still time to escape safely.

Emergency Apps Can Help During House Fires

During a fire, panic can make it difficult to think clearly or explain your location properly.

The Integrated Emergency Response (iER) app is a FREE emergency response app that connects users to more than 18,000 medical and non-medical emergency services nationwide. The app has been downloaded more than one million times and received two awards at the 2025 FNB App Awards.

The iER call centre operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, helping users access emergency assistance during unexpected incidents.

If an emergency alert is activated, the app’s Live Tracking feature can automatically share a user’s location, helping emergency responders provide faster and more accurate assistance when every second counts.

Users can also create a Safety Squad, allowing trusted friends and family members to stay connected and view each other’s live locations for added peace of mind.

The app is free to use on smart devices, with no in-app purchases or adverts. It uses a mobile internet connection to receive alerts, chat with users, and provide updates on emergency incidents.

Small Mistakes Can Have Serious Consequences

House fires can spread far quicker than many people expect, especially during winter when heaters, candles, and electrical appliances are used more often.

Simple habits such as checking plugs, switching heaters off before bed, and using candles carefully can help reduce the risk of a serious fire. Keeping emergency numbers nearby is also important when every second counts.

When a fire starts, acting quickly can make all the difference. Often, it is the small safety precautions that help prevent a far more serious tragedy.

Keeping emergency support close at hand can be just as important as taking steps to prevent a fire in the first place.