Many of the things we enjoy over the Christmas period, such as fairy lights, candles and decorations, can all be fire hazards when proper care is not taken.
Read on to find out how to keep your household safe this Christmas.
Trees and decorations
- Water fresh trees daily so they don’t dry out. Dry trees are incredibly flammable
- Check fairy lights are in good working order and replace any bulbs that have blown
- Don’t overload plug sockets and extension cords
- Unplug your fairy lights when you leave the house or go to bed
- Don’t attach decorations to lights or heaters or around the fireplace
Candles
- Never place candles near your Christmas tree or furnishings and don’t leave them unattended while burning
- Always make sure tea lights are placed in a proper holder. The foil container which tea lights come in can get very hot and can melt through plastic, such as a bath, and have the potential to start a house fire
- Keep matches and lighters away from children
Christmas dinner
- Never leave hobs unattended while you’re cooking
- Don’t cook while under the influence of alcohol, particularly late at night
Stay safe
- Make sure smoke alarms work
- Make sure you know your nearest fire escape
