Stirling residents are being urged to take extra care over improvised heating and cooking methods amid the pressures of the cost-of-living crisis.
The warning comes from Advice Direct Scotland, who run a pair of energy advice services on behalf of the Scottish Government, as part of a new energy safety campaign.
The charity has joined forces with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service as well as the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents to provide valuable guidance to households struggling with soaring bills.
It follows the emergence of a number of dangerous ‘cost-cutting hacks’ circulating on social media – including one featuring a makeshift heating device fashioned out of terracotta pots and tealights.
Locals have also been reminded of the risks posed by accidental house fires and carbon monoxide poisoning by cooking with barbecues and camping stoves indoors.
The #energy23 campaign , which kicked off on Monday and finishes up on Friday (January 29), offers vital safety tips on electric blankets, hot water bottles, microwaveable warmers and soft toys.
Other items where people are being urged to take care are when purchasing portable heaters and other electrical items as counterfeit goods are more likely to contain sub-standard parts that could cause a fire or an electric shock.
Conor Forbes, director of policy with Advice Direct Scotland, said: “With the cost-of-living crisis making things tighter financially for Scottish households, many of us will be seeking ways to reduce costs and save money this winter.
“However, this should not be at the expense of staying safe when it comes to lighting, heating and eating in our homes.
“There may be the temptation to purchase sub-standard, untested counterfeit products to cut costs.
“It’s important to be aware of the safety issues related to electrical items, and to ensure we are only purchasing products that meet manufacturing and safety standards.
“Untested, and unregulated methods of keeping warm can cause fires.”
Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Area Commander for Prevention and Protection, David Dourley, added: “Keeping people safe is our priority and we do not want anyone to unintentionally put themselves at risk from accidental fires or carbon monoxide poisoning in the home because of changing behaviours linked to the cost-of-living.
“Firefighters can provide Home Fire Safety Visits to the most vulnerable people, particularly those that are over 50 who smoke, and who have either mobility issues or use medical oxygen or live alone.
“You can help arrange a visit for someone you know.”
