A FIRE chief is urging the public to keep a close eye on elderly friends and relatives to stop them becoming a fire statistic this winter.
The warning has come in the wake of weather predictions which are forecasting one of the coldest winters in years.
Vinny Simpson, Bolton commander for the Greater Manchester Fire Service, said elderly people were far more likely to become involved in a fire at this time of year.
"During this period we would ask that friends and neighbours check on the elderly whenever possible," he said.
"It may be that they do not have a smoke alarm or that you are concerned for their well-being with regard to fire safety in the home.
"This is a period when more heating, including portable heaters and electric blankets are used, which increases the risk of fire."
People over 60 make up 40 per cent of all fire-related deaths, 20 per cent of all fire-related casualties and are twice as likely to die in a fire.
Harold Heywood, senior manager at Bolton Age Concern, said: "This is a very important message that the fire service is putting out. It's important to raise awareness about the vulnerability of elderly people at any time of the year but particularly in winter.
"All friends and neighbours need to keep an acute eye on their elderly neighbours."
He said Age Concern could always lend a "friendly ear to people who are concerned about elderly friends and relatives, and also help older people deal with the problems they are facing.
The most common causes of fires in the home are discarded cigarettes, cooking appliances and chip pans left on when people become distracted, and open fires and heating appliances catching fire.
The fire service's top tips are:
l Never smoke in bed
l Never leave cooking unattended
l Never leave lit candles unattended
l Always use a fireguard around an open fire
l Get electric blankets checked by a qualified electrician
l Fit a smoke alarm
lIn the event of a fire, get out and call 999
If you or anyone you know has concerns about fire safety or you want a free fire safety check, call 0800 555815. You can also call Bolton Age Concern for advice and help on 382411.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article