With almost 13,500 people killed or injured each year in domestic fires, snaps of cold weather bring an added risk as people heat their homes.

To help in the prevention, detection, containment and escape from Fire, Chubb has put together a 12-point guide to fire safety.

• Fit a fire or smoke alarm. Test your alarm and change the batteries at least once a year.
• Never leave fires, candles or any form of naked flame in the home unattended and ensure candles are secure before lighting.
• Never leave children around fires, candles or matches unsupervised. If you have elderly relatives, take the time to check on them regularly.
• In the kitchen keep a fire blanket or suitable extinguisher handy.
• Avoid wearing baggy clothes while cooking and around heaters, candles and open fires.
• Never smoke in bed and ensure that all cigarettes and candles are extinguished before retiring.
• In case of a fire, have a plan. Make sure you have more than one escape route should your route become blocked.
• If you have gas, oil or coal-burning appliances be aware of carbon monoxide. Ensure your home is properly ventilated and equipment is regularly serviced and maintained.
• If you have an open fire make sure the fire guard is secure and in place.
• Keep heaters away from furniture and curtains.
• Use your common sense.

"A house fire can start unexpectedly at any time," says Mike Pawezowski, Head of Marketing Services at Chubb: "People need to be particularly careful at this time of year as they resort to additional heating. Almost 65,000 homes each year suffer some form of fire, and for many the consequences can be devastating in both loss of life and property. What is really staggering is the number of homes who have still yet to fit any form of fire or smoke alarm. For just a few pounds this can mean the matter of life and death.

"We are all guilty of bringing the extra heater down from the loft and turning it on without rechecking it is fit for purpose," he adds. "It is all too easy for people to be lazy and not take adequate precautions to prevent a fire in the home, the consequences of which can be devastating. During the winter people need to be extra vigilant."