It is forbidden to start fire in stoves with highly flammable substances and liquids, such as gasoline and oil. Stoves should not be overheated, and highly flammable materials should be kept far from heating installations. The recommendations were formulated by the General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations in connection with the increased risk of fires and cases of carbon monoxide poisoning during the cold period of the year, IPN reports.

Specialists warn that carbon monoxide poisoning poses an increased risk to life. That is why the people are urged to check the functionality of ventilation ducts and ensure appropriate and systematic ventilation of rooms. To prevent the emission of hazardous gases, the fire in the stove at night must be extinguished.

The improper use of electric heating appliances is another significant danger. Electrical appliances, namely heaters, hearths, air conditioners, electric mattresses and blankets, must be purchased from specialized stores, with all the necessary certificates, and these must not be defective.

Power grid overloading can lead to short circuits. It is forbidden to cover electric heating sources and at night they must necessarily be unplugged.

Gas-fired installations also represent a potential danger if they are not operated correctly. Gas-fired installations must be installed in a safe place and checked periodically. The rooms in which such installations operate must be properly ventilated.

If people opt for the use of gas cylinders, these must be kept exclusively outside, in a metal box and away from rooms. It is also banned using defective cylinders or hoses.

The 151 fires that occurred so far this year resulted in nine deaths.