NSW Rural Fire Service district officer Jason Wall shared some tips to keep people safe during winter time.

“One of the most important things to make sure of is smoke alarms,” he said.

“Make sure they're working and installed throughout the house and in sleeping areas, so not necessarily in the kitchen area alone.

“Have an adequate number of suitable smoke alarms installed throughout your home and make sure you test them regularly.”

Smoke alarms may be a year-round tip, but there were also some good, winter specific things that Mr Wall made mention of.

“People may tend to dry clothes in front of a heater, or fire now that winter is upon us but make sure to keep clothing, be it wet or dry, at least one metre from heaters or fireplaces, and never leave unattended,” he said.

“The same can be said for things such as curtains to keep a safe distance away from fires.

“To test an electric blanket, lay it flat on top of the bed, then switch it on for five minutes before putting it on the bed for use to confirm it is okay.

“Oil, gas or wood heating units may require a yearly maintenance check, this one is very important so I would urge people who haven’t had their heating units checked in a while to do so.”

He also said if the worst did happen and a fire breaks out in the home, make sure the entire family knows how to respond.

“Make sure you and your family knows two safe ways out of every room in your house,” he said.

“Have a written home escape plan in case of fire and practice it regularly.

“If possible, in the kitchen keep a fire extinguisher and fire blanket placed near the exit.”

Even the simplest of tasks should not be done without precaution.

“I would advise people to never leave cooking unattended, be it winter, summer, or whenever,” he said.

“Even things like candles can be a danger so make sure not to leave them without proper supervision,” Mr Wall said.