Oxford,
20
October
2016
|
16:58
Europe/London

Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service issues warning over white goods

Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service is urging people to stop using white goods that are subject to product recall or safety notices, even if the manufacturer says it is safe to do so. This warning comes at the same time as MPs are being urged to back a parliamentary motion expressing “deep concern” about the potential fire risk posed by white goods.

Assistant Chief Fire Officer of Oxfordshire County Council Fire and Rescue Service, Rob MacDougall, said: “If you find out that one of your white goods is subject to a safety notice or recall, it is really important that you do not continue to use it, even if the manufacturer says it is safe to do so. This is a view shared by other Fire and Rescue Services across the country and by the Chief Fire Officers Association (CFOA).

“If you want to check if a white appliance is part of a manufacturer’s recall or subject to a safety notice, check the manufacturer’s website. Alternatively, visit http://www.registermyappliance.org.uk/ to check if your appliances are safe.”

Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service attends more than two incidents every month involving white goods.

Councillor Rodney Rose, the cabinet member with responsibility for Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service said: "In line with the advice offered by Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service we strongly advise homeowners and tenants to check whether their white goods are subject to a product recall. It’s something you might not always be aware of but left unchecked puts you and who you live with in danger.”

White goods fire safety tips

  • Be sure to register your appliances so you can be contacted if a safety repair is ever needed. It’s easier than you think.

  • Don't leave appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines running over night or when the house is empty

  • Good housekeeping can reduce the risk of fire - dusty vents on fridges should be cleaned

  • If your tumble dryer is taking longer to dry your clothes the vent hose may need cleaning out

  • Research revealed that 32% of Brits would continue to use white goods even if they started making strange noises. It’s never wise to ignore strange appliance noises – turn the appliance off and call an electrician

  • Make sure you have working smoke alarms and a fire escape plan