Have a safe holiday season

As the festive period approaches many of us will be beginning to look forward to a bit of rest and relaxation but it is important people don’t let their guard down and fall victim to fire.

The holiday season is an opportunity to spend more time at home, use candles and fairy lights and have a few drinks, but all of these activities can increase the risk of fire.

By following some very simple advice you can make sure you have a great time but still stay safe.

Safety advice

• Check your Christmas tree lights conform to the British Standard and are in good working order. Always switch off and unplug Christmas lights before you go to bed or go out.
• Never place candles near your Christmas tree or furnishings and never leave them burning unattended. 
• Make sure your family, and any visitors staying for the festive period, know what to do in an emergency. Tell them where you keep door and window keys so they can escape if a fire starts.
• Make a fire action plan so that everyone in your home knows how to escape if there is a fire.
• Decorations can burn easily - don't attach them to lights or heaters. 
• The risk of accidents, especially in the kitchen, is greater after alcohol is consumed, so take care it you’re having a few festive drinks.
• Many fires start in the kitchen - never leave cooking unattended. 
• If you are planning to celebrate with fireworks make sure you follow the firework code
• Make sure cigarettes are completely extinguished and never smoke in bed, many fires start when people fall asleep while smoking
• Keep candles, lighters and matches out of reach of children. 
• Make sure your home has working smoke alarms and check them regularly.

The holidays are a great opportunity to make sure your home, and the homes of friends and family, are safe. You could even give a smoke alarm as a stocking filler – there aren’t many presents that cost £5 but could save a life.

Older people who live alone and have reduced mobility are more likely to be hurt in a fire. Why not visit an older relative or neighbour this Christmas and make sure they are fire safe.