Brits are being warned by a fire chief that people could die this winter by resorting to dangerous methods to save money that could lead to house blazes.
Many people are worried how they are going to get by with the possibility of energy bills doubling and inflation going through the roof during the cost of living crisis.
For some it could be a case of deciding between heating their homes or feeding themselves.
Now Staffordshire's Chief Fire Officer, Rob Barber, has highlighted potential dangers including people trying to save money using electrical heaters to dry clothes that could then catch fire.
There is also a chance people will get too close to open fires and burn unsafe material in an effort to keep warm, reported BirminghamLive.
Tragically he says it means that there is a higher chance of fire-related deaths compared to last year.
Chief Officer Barber, said: "We are expecting accidental house fires will increase this year as people make changes to their behaviour and the way they heat their homes.
"We have a number of concerns which range from people huddling too close to open fires, electrical heaters being used to dry clothes, individuals throwing anything that will burn into wood burners and even camping stoves being used indoors.
"Unfortunately more fires increases the likelihood of more injuries and sadly the potential for more deaths. We appreciate people need to make changes to how they use energy in order to reduce costs but we'd urge people not to do that at the expense of your own life and that of others.
"You can reduce your energy bill without having to resort to unsafe practices."
Mr Barber continued: "The easiest and most effective thing you can do to reduce your risk is to check you have working smoke alarms on each floor of your property, to increase your protection further ensure you have a carbon monoxide detector fitted.
"If you have an open fire get the chimney swept ahead of needing to use it this winter and use seasoned logs with the 'Safe to Burn' logo that won't spit.
"Open fires also need guards and avoid huddling too close to them, sadly we have had a number of fire deaths caused by open fires. The same goes for portable heaters, don't get too close to them and ensure they are a safe distance away from other materials."
A spokesperson for Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service, reported BirminghamLive, added: "In the months ahead the service will be partnering up with other organisations to support initiatives which support low income households and provide equipment to help people keep warmer in their homes.
"Heating your home safely will also be a focus of the 'Safe and Well' visits that fire staff carry out in the homes of vulnerable people on a daily basis."
