Firefighters urge you to stop using some appliances whilst you're asleep

Tuesday, 3 December 2024 08:33

Fire bosses say 'You could be putting your life at risk' if you run your dryer whilst you sleep

Many people believe it’s a good idea to run tumble dryers, dishwashers, and washing machines overnight—thinking it saves money or simply for convenience. But did you know this choice could put your home and your life at risk?

Electrical appliances such as tumble dryers, dishwashers, and washing machines are a common cause of household fires. The appliances are high wattage machines. When these appliances are left running overnight or while you're out, you aren’t able to act quickly if something goes wrong. A spark or malfunction could lead to devastating consequences.

Electricity Isn’t Always Cheaper at Night

It's a myth that running appliances overnight saves on electricity costs. Unless you are on a specific tariff, such as an Economy 7 plan, the cost per kWh is the same 24 hours a day. For most households on the standard energy tariff, there’s no financial benefit to running these machines during the night.

Simple Steps to Stay Safe

Use appliances only when you’re awake and at home. This way, you can act immediately in case of an issue. Keep appliances well-maintained. Regular cleaning and servicing can reduce the risk of malfunctions. Don’t overload your plug sockets. Overloading sockets can strain the power supply and increase fire risks, especially with high wattage machines. Switch off appliances at the mains after use. Leaving them plugged in unnecessarily increases the risk of electrical faults.

Your Safety Comes First

By running your appliances during the day when you’re alert and present, you reduce the risk of fire and protect what matters most—your home, your family, and your life.