As the winter chill sets in, it’s natural to reach for heaters, electric blankets, and scented candles to stay cosy. But with the colder months also comes a spike in household fires across Australia. If you’re renting, fire safety is not only about protecting your home and belongings — it’s about protecting your life and those around you.
Here’s how to stay fire-safe this winter without sacrificing your comfort.
Check Your Smoke Alarms
Property Owners are legally required to install and maintain smoke alarms in rental properties — but it’s also your responsibility to make sure they’re working.
Test your smoke alarms once a month
Let your agent know immediately if an alarm is missing or not working
Never disable or remove a battery
Be Smart with Heaters
Portable heaters are one of the top causes of house fires in winter. That warm blast is tempting, but safety comes first.
Keep anything flammable (like curtains, clothes, or bedding) at least 1 metre away
Never leave heaters on overnight or when you’re out
Don’t use power boards with heaters — plug them directly into the wall
Note: If your heater is faulty, let your property manager know immediately. You should not be expected to use unsafe appliances.
Candle and Incense Safety
Candles and incense are cosy, but they’re also an open flame.
Place candles on a flat, stable, non-flammable surface
Never leave them unattended
Keep out of reach of kids and pets
Electric Blankets and Heat Packs
Electric blankets can be lifesavers — but only if used properly.
Check for frayed wires or scorch marks before each use
Turn off at the wall when not in use
Don’t fold electric blankets while they’re still warm — it can damage the wires
Only heat wheat bags or heat packs according to instructions
Be Careful in the Kitchen
Winter means hearty soups and late-night hot chocolates — but it also means more time near the stove.
Never leave cooking unattended
Keep tea towels, paper, and other flammables away from the stove
Avoid wearing loose sleeves while cooking
Power Board and Extension Lead Safety
With more appliances in use, it’s easy to overload sockets.
Use power boards with built-in surge protectors
Don’t “piggy-back” double adaptors
Avoid running cords under rugs or through doorways
Know Your Fire Plan
Make sure everyone in the household knows what to do in case of fire.
Know your exits — front and back doors
Keep your phone charged
If your property has a fire extinguisher or fire blanket, know where it is and how to use it
In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000)
Winter should be about comfort, not crisis. As a renter, you have the right to a safe home — and the power to prevent accidents with just a few simple steps. If you ever notice fire hazards in your rental (like faulty wiring, missing smoke alarms, or a broken heater), report them to your property manager straight away.
Staying fire-safe this winter doesn’t have to be complicated — just careful.
