The UK is gearing up for a deep freeze, with weather alerts in place for heavy snow and ice across many parts of Scotland, set to last until Thursday, November 21.
Despite the Met Office‘s winter warnings, which forecast as much as 20cm falling in a 14-hour period, residents are being urged to be cautious about how they keep warm during this chilly period.
Some areas are set to see temperatures plummet to the freezing mark, which ‘feels like’ temperatures dipping below zero. Although snow flurries have been seen across the county, there has yet to be any significant accumulation.
As people crank up their thermostats, plug in electric blankets, and gather around portable heaters, those using hot water bottles should pay attention to essential safety tips.
It’s vital not to use a hot water bottle with an electric blanket due to risks such as leaks or bursts. British Gas has provided specific advice, as reported by the Express: “With electric blankets: do not use a hot water bottle, even if the blanket’s switched off.
“Unplug blankets before you go to bed, unless they have thermostat control for safe all-night use.”
Hot water bottles also have an expiry date stamped on the neck, and using them past this date increases the risk of leaks, cracks, or even explosions, which can result in serious burns or injuries. Typically, a hot water bottle should be replaced every two years.
You can determine the age of your water bottle by examining the daisy wheel print on its neck or body; the central number reveals the year it was made, while the surrounding 12 segments denote the month. Some bottles even specify the manufacturing week with dots inside the monthly segment.
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Additionally, energy suppliers urge caution when using electric heaters—keep them away from curtains and furniture and avoid using them to dry clothes, as they pose a fire risk if too close to fabrics or left unattended.
It’s also crucial to install a carbon monoxide detector at home, especially if you use gas appliances or wood burners.
The warning highlights: “When burning fuel, carbon monoxide poisoning can be a health risk. Carbon monoxide is produced when fuel does not burn properly, and every year around 30 people die following accidental exposure to high levels of the gas, which is difficult to detect because you can’t see, smell or taste it.”
To cut down on hazards, experts advise: “To minimise risks, a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm, which meets European Standards EN 5029, should be fitted in any room that contains a gas fuel burning appliance, like a boiler and gas fire, and a solid fuel burning appliance, and tested regularly to ensure that it is working, as effectively as possible. The rooms should be adequately ventilated.”
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