The cost-of-living crisis may lead to an increase in home fires

By Anthony Murray, Fire Investigation Specialist at Strange Strange & Gardner

[THE RISING COST OF LIVING has placed significant pressure on consumers to find affordable ways to heat and light their homes. Over the past few weeks, there have been reports of an increase in the use of portable heaters, electric blankets, wood-burning stoves and candles in homes – often as cost-saving measures. As a result, there is an increased risk of a fire.

Consumers are likely to try and save money by using high-energy white goods such as tumble dryers during the night, in order to take advantage of cheaper electricity in off-peak hours. There is still a risk of a fire when using such devices and it is likely people will have less time to respond, should one occur, due to them being asleep. As a result, the risk of accidental house fires will increase.

Strange Strange & Gardner will investigate a fire, determine the cause and advise if it may have been caused by defective equipment. We are well placed to assist in dealing with the aftermath of what is likely to have been a traumatic event. q