As the weather begins to get cooler, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service is asking people to consider fire safety when saving money on their energy bills.

The Service is concerned that people may put themselves at additional risk as the cost-of-living increases.

To counter this concern, the Service is launching a new campaign called ‘Save Safely’, in which they are asking people to think about preparing for winter with three simple checks.

- Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detection. Complete an online fire safety check on our website – visit dsfire.gov.uk/homesafety for a simple online check of your home to help you to help yourself be safer from the risk of fire. If you’re vulnerable or need more help, we can come and visit your home to have a look around – this online check will start this process. People unable to access the internet can call 0800 05 02 999.

- If you’re planning on using a portable heater – check for damaged wiring and if anything doesn’t look right, either dispose of it or get it checked by a professional. An oil-filled radiator type heater is the safest type as these don’t have any exposed heating elements.

- Complete an online fire safety check on our website – visit: dsfire.gov.uk/homesafety for a simple online check of your home. People can also call 0800 05 02 999.

Group Manager, Ros Clarke, said: ‘We know this winter is going to be really tough for everyone. Every winter we see people making unsafe choices to stay warm, but we are worried this is going to be worse this year.

‘We’ve previously had fires relating to people using old or damaged heaters, drying washing on heaters, or using candles. We’ve also had people using patio stoves indoors in a desperate attempt to stay warm.

‘We know people are going to have tough choices to make due to finances, but we want people to make safety their first thought when it comes to saving money.’