As winter approaches, Clare Adamson, Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP), has issued a crucial reminder about safety amid rising costs of living. With energy bills and food prices increasing, many households are feeling financial strain. Ms. Adamson emphasizes that compromising on safety-related items can lead to serious risks.
“Winter can be challenging when household budgets are tight,” stated Ms. Adamson. “But safety should never be compromised. A few simple, low-cost actions can make a big difference in keeping you and your family safe.” She warns that if a product seems too cheap, it likely does not meet proper safety standards.
Safe Heating Practices and Product Awareness
As many people turn to electric blankets, heated throws, and portable heaters to save on central heating costs, Ms. Adamson underscores the importance of using these items responsibly. She advises the public to purchase from reputable UK retailers or trusted online sellers, and to check for safety certifications such as UKCA, CE, or British Standards marks.
She also cautions against buying second-hand electrical items unless they have been properly tested and certified. Portable heaters, in particular, should never be plugged into extension leads, left unattended, or placed near soft furnishings. Electric blankets and hot water bottles must be inspected for damage before use, and hot water bottles should only be filled with warm water, not boiling water, to prevent burns.
As the use of candles, fairy lights, and decorations increases during winter, fire safety becomes another key concern. Ms. Adamson recommends battery-operated LED candles as a safer alternative to open flames and reminds individuals to keep real candles away from curtains, furniture, and decorations. She advises that all candles and lights should be turned off when not in use.
Overloaded plug sockets and extension cords pose additional risks, especially when powering multiple devices. Ms. Adamson expresses concern over cheap, unbranded electrical goods bought online, warning that they may not meet UK safety standards, thereby increasing the risk of fire or electrical failure.
Winter Safety for Motorists and Community Support
For motorists, winter safety means preparing for potentially hazardous driving conditions. Ms. Adamson encourages drivers to carry essential items in their vehicles, including a warm blanket, an ice scraper, de-icer, a flashlight, snacks, water, and a phone charger or portable power bank. Regular maintenance checks on tyres, wipers, and lights are crucial to ensure vehicles are road-safe during colder months.
She also urges caution when purchasing car heaters, jump starters, or other vehicle accessories online, noting that counterfeit or unregulated products can pose serious safety risks. Ms. Adamson is particularly alarmed by the increasing availability of unsafe and counterfeit products online, including heating devices, carbon monoxide alarms, and children’s toys.
To help consumers make informed choices, she advises looking for red flags, such as missing safety markings, vague manufacturer details, poor-quality instructions, or prices that seem unusually low. Additionally, she recommends registering new appliances with the manufacturer to receive safety updates or recall notices.
Importantly, Ms. Adamson highlights that winter safety does not have to be costly. Simple measures, such as testing smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, using draught excluders to retain heat, and clearing ice, leaves, or clutter from outdoor paths can significantly enhance household safety. She also encourages community members to check in on elderly or vulnerable neighbors during cold spells to ensure they have what they need.
Ms. Adamson points to organizations like RoSPA, Trading Standards, and Citizens Advice, which offer free or low-cost guidance and safety resources. Promoting awareness of these services aligns with her commitment to reducing accidents and improving public safety. As the Convenor of the Scottish Parliament’s Cross Party Group on Accident Prevention and Safety Awareness, she continues to advocate for accessible safety advice and support throughout the year.
“I’m urging families to prepare wisely for winter,” Ms. Adamson added. “By making informed choices, checking for safety certifications, and taking simple precautions, we can all stay safe without adding financial pressure.”
