AS the temperature drops and winter draws near, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service are remaining people to stay safe when using gas and electric heaters.

Most fires caused by heaters are caused by sitting too close to them, placing heaters near curtains and furniture, or using them to dry washing, the fire service says.

‘Follow our advice to keep yourself (and others) safe and warm around fixed and portable heaters’ the service said .

• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

• Only buy a heater if it has a British or European safety mark.

• Keep your heater at least one metre away from furniture and curtains.

• Don’t move a portable heater while it’s switched on.

• Switch off and unplug heaters before going out or going to sleep.

• Use fireguards to prevent children and pets from touching them.

• Never dry washing on heaters or put anything on top that will obstruct the air grilles.

• Try to secure your portable heater against a wall to stop it from falling over.