As autumn fades and winter sets in across the UK, many homes and workplaces turn to heating appliances to stay warm and comfortable. From fan heaters and oil radiators to log burners and open fires, these devices are a seasonal necessity. However, they also pose a serious fire risk when not used with care.

In this blog, we explore why heating appliances are a major cause of fire incidents during the colder months, the common hazards they present, and how to use them safely to protect your property and the people inside it.

The Rise in Fire Incidents During Winter

Statistical data from UK fire services consistently shows a noticeable increase in domestic and commercial fires between November and February. A significant proportion of these are linked to heating equipment.

Factors contributing to this seasonal spike include:

• Greater use of portable heaters and open fires

• Drying clothes too close to heat sources

• Faulty or untested equipment

• Increased use of plug sockets and extension leads

• Flammable materials placed too near to heat sources

While modern heating appliances are safer than ever before, misuse or neglect still leads to hundreds of avoidable fires each winter.

Common Heating Devices That Pose Fire Risks

1. Portable Electric Heaters

Fan heaters, halogen heaters, and oil-filled radiators are common in both homes and offices. They are particularly dangerous when:

• Left unattended

• Placed near flammable materials such as curtains, bedding, or clothing

• Used with faulty wiring or overloaded extension leads

Tip: Always plug heaters directly into the wall and never use them overnight or while sleeping.

2. Gas Heaters

Although less common nowadays, portable gas heaters are still in use, especially in older properties or garages. Risks include:

• Gas leaks leading to explosions or fires

• Poor ventilation causing carbon monoxide build-up

• Faulty regulators or hoses igniting nearby flammable items

Tip: Use only in well-ventilated spaces and ensure annual servicing by a Gas Safe registered engineer.

3. Open Fires and Wood-Burning Stoves

Nothing beats a crackling fire in winter, but open flames bring predictable dangers:

• Sparks igniting soft furnishings or carpets

• Chimney fires caused by soot build-up

• Children or pets getting too close

Tip: Always use a fireguard, have your chimney swept annually, and never leave fires unattended.

4. Central Heating Systems

While not as directly hazardous, central heating systems can still become a fire risk if:

• Boilers haven’t been serviced and develop faults

• Radiators are obstructed by flammable materials

• Thermostats or timer switches malfunction

Tip: Have your boiler serviced yearly and never drape laundry over radiators without supervision.

The Role of Overloaded Electrics in Winter Fire Risks

As well as the heating appliances themselves, the way they are powered adds another layer of risk. In winter, it’s common for:

• Sockets to be overloaded with heaters, lights, and festive decorations

• Extension leads to be daisy-chained together

• Cables to run under carpets, causing overheating

This is a leading cause of electrical fires, particularly in older properties with outdated wiring.

Preventative measures include:

• Using only one appliance per socket

• Investing in surge-protected extension leads

• Checking plug and cable condition regularly

• Never using damaged or scorched plug sockets

How to Reduce the Fire Risk from Heating Appliances

Keeping warm doesn’t have to mean increasing your fire risk. Follow these key safety tips:

Keep all heating devices at least one metre away from combustible materials

Curtains, bedding, paper, furniture, and Christmas decorations can all ignite quickly.

Never leave heaters on when you leave a room

Unattended heaters are a leading cause of house fires in winter.

Don’t dry clothes directly on or over heaters

This not only creates a fire hazard but can also lead to moisture damage to the appliance.

Schedule a winter fire safety check

Whether at home or at work, having your fire extinguishers and alarms checked can provide vital protection.

Install and maintain smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Especially important if using gas or solid-fuel heating systems.

Fire Extinguishers: Your First Line of Defence

Should a small fire break out due to a heating appliance, having the correct type of fire extinguisher nearby can help prevent a disaster. At Fireline UK, we supply and maintain all types of fire extinguishers suited to winter risks, including:

• Foam extinguishers – ideal for fabric and upholstery fires caused by radiant heat.

• CO₂ extinguishers – suitable for electrical fires caused by overloaded sockets or faulty heaters.

• Dry powder extinguishers – versatile and effective on electrical, gas, and flammable liquids.

Make sure extinguishers are serviced and located in easily accessible places—not hidden behind furniture or decorations.

Is It Time to Reassess Your Fire Risk?

With the increased use of heating appliances during the winter months, now is the time to carry out a thorough fire risk assessment. Whether you manage a workplace, run a public building, or just want to keep your family safe at home, your plan should include:

• Identifying all heating devices in use

• Reviewing the placement and condition of each item

• Ensuring fire extinguishers and smoke detectors are present and functional

• Training staff or family members on how to respond in an emergency

Stay Warm, Stay Safe with Fireline UK

Heating appliances make life more comfortable through the UK’s coldest months, but only when used responsibly. Don’t let a preventable fire ruin your winter.

At Fireline UK, we provide comprehensive fire extinguisher services, workplace risk assessments, and expert advice to keep you protected.

Ready to discuss your winter fire safety needs? Contact us today to arrange a service or speak with one of our specialists.