Winter Heating: Safety Essentials

  • 5 July 2026

As the days get cooler, Australians become more reliant on heaters to stay warm. However, this time of year also brings a 10% increase in the risk of house fires.

A working smoke alarm is your first line of defence, providing early warning when seconds matter most.


General Heater Safety Tips

Keep these tips in mind:

  • Always keep at least one metre space around your heater
    • Especially flammable items such as bedding and curtains
  • Always supervise young children in rooms with open fires or operating heaters
  • Place portable heaters in stable locations where they cannot be knocked over by people or pets
  • Regularly check for faulty heaters, overloaded power points, blocked vents and nearby flammable material.
  • Install and use heaters as per manufacturer’s instructions

Gas Heater Safety

The risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning increases when using gas heaters during winter. CO is odourless, colourless, tasteless - and deadly.

To stay safe:

  • All gas heaters must be installed and serviced regularly by a licensed gasfitter
  • Avoid using your gas heater for long periods of time or when not required, such as overnight
  • Ensure that your gas heater complies with the Australian Gas Association standards
  • Never use an unflued gas heater in a bedroom, bathroom, or other unventilated spaces

BROOKS CAN HELP

Before you turn your heater on, make sure your smoke alarms are working and properly maintained.

In homes where there are gas heaters, it is recommended to keep a carbon monoxide alarm installed and working.

Upgrade your home fire safety today with Brooks fire safety solutions.

We've got your safety covered

Brooks, originally a family-owned and operated Australian company established in 1973, was acquired by the Irish-based company Ei Electronics in late 2022. With a wealth of industry knowledge and experience, we remain committed to providing quality, reliable products to safeguard you and your family.