FIREFIGHTERS want to warn residents that many electrical appliances are not designed to be left turned on and can cause devastating house fires.
Chief Fire Officers said items like dishwashers, tumble dryers, cookers and washing machines should not be left running overnight or when the house is empty.
They also advised people to switch off televisions at the plug and ensure ovens or grills are regularly cleaned as grease can be flammable.
Nick Evans, head of prevention at Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We don’t want to scare people, just make them aware that there are risks associated with using any electrical items and that these risks can be greatly reduced if the items are not left unattended and are maintained correctly.
“This includes tumble dryers where the simple act of removing lint after every use can help prevent a fire occurring.”
He urged people to fit smoke alarms and register their appliances online at registermyappliance.org.uk for current safety instructions.
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