For most of us, these have been in storage over the warmer months, so it’s a timely reminder to inspect and clean these items before use.

NSW Fire and Rescue has reported that over 40 per cent of all fire fatalities occur in winter, and is asking each of us to follow a few simple steps to help prevent these tragic events.

Clean heaters with a vacuum cleaner or soft, dry cloth to remove any dust and ensure lint-traps on clothes dryers are clean.

Check appliances for loose connections, frayed cords and exposed wiring. If any of these are found to be worn, faulty or damaged, they should be repaired and tested by a licensed electrician or appliance repairer – or completely replaced.

Winter is also a good time to check the batteries in smoke and fire alarms, and test all units in the home.

Be mindful of overloading power-boards and ensure flammable materials such as clothing, curtains or rugs, bedding, towels and furniture are at least one metre away from heaters.

You can find more winter safety information by visiting www.fire.nsw.gov.au/page.php?id=879 or your local energy supplier’s website.

COLOUR, music and creativity will hit Sydney for the next few weeks during the world’s largest festival of light, music and ideas, Vivid Sydney.

Highlights of this year’s Vivid Light program will include Audio Creatures, featuring imaginary sea creatures lurking deep in the harbour and shimmering plant life projected on the city’s ultimate canvas, the sails of the spectacular Sydney Opera House.

Barangaroo (South) will light up as a new precinct alongside returning favourites Chatswood, Darling Harbour, Martin Place, the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney and Taronga Zoo.

Last year the event injected over $110 million into the state’s economy, and many regional towns also benefited as travellers continued on to some of our rural and regional towns.