HOUSEHOLDERS in Gloucestershire are being warned that leaving their TVs on standby could increase the risk of fire.

The county fire service says that not only will turning off your TV save you money - standby uses 80 per cent of a TV’s power - but will help protect families from fire.

The fire service adds that there should also be one plug in each socket. Many appliances plugged into a socket with a multi-way adaptor can overload the circuit, causing a fire that can produce sufficient carbon dioxide to suffocate someone.

Chief Fire Officer and Group Director of Community Safety, Chris Griffin, said: “Many people don’t realise how many of their appliances are needlessly using up electricity, especially at night. Obviously people need to leave the fridge and freezer on, but things like stereos, kettles, radios, computers and the TV can all be turned off at the wall and unplugged when they are not being used.

“People should take care with their electrical appliances and remember the rule of one plug to one socket. Following these simple tips will save you money and reduce the risk of fire in your home, but the best advice you can follow is to make sure you have a smoke alarm and that it is in good working order and checked regularly.”

Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service will install smoke alarms free of charge while carrying out a home fire safety check. To book a visit or for further information please call 01452 753333 and ask for the Community Safety team. For more fire safety advice, go to www.glosfire.gov.uk