Avon Fire & Rescue Service is calling on people across Bath to follow their advice to help them stay safe at home during the festive season.
With the big day fast approaching and many of us having already started decorating, shopping and wrapping, preparing your home for Christmas safely is a top priority.
Tips on candles, Christmas lights, trees and decorating have been offered, to help reduce the risk of fires and injuries.
Nikki Rice, Risk Reduction Manager said: “During the festive period, we want to help local people keep themselves safe, so we can all make the most of the holiday safely.
“As decorations go up and celebrations begin, we often see an abundance of hazards throughout Christmas, and too often there are accidents that could have been prevented.
“I‘d encourage everyone to follow our simple safety tips, to keep yourself and your loved ones free from harm.”
Key festive fire safety tips
Candles
- If you’re using candles, keep them well clear of any Christmas decorations as well as curtains, blinds and especially Christmas trees. These materials can catch alight easily.
- Keep candles, lighters and matches out of children’s reach.
- Never leave candles unattended.
Lights
- Check that your lights are in good condition before use and look out for loose connections and broken lamps.
- Never overload electrical sockets.
- Always switch lights off and unplug them before going to bed or going out.
Christmas Trees
- Position trees well clear of fireplaces and heaters. Live trees are highly flammable due to their needles and sap.
- Keep real trees hydrated by checking water levels every other day. A dry, dead tree is a far greater fire risk than a hydrated, living tree.
- Make sure Christmas trees are secured in a sturdy base, pot or held in a stand. This will reduce the likelihood of the tree tipping over.
Decorating
- Get help from family or friends when using ladders to put up decorations. Ensure that someone is securing the base of the ladder, and that your ladder is fit for purpose (make sure your ladder is tall enough).
- When hanging Christmas lights, if unsure, ask for help. Don’t underestimate the difficulty of working at height.
- Reduce risks to little ones by using shatterproof and sturdy ornaments and decorations.
Nikki added: “We all want to have a jolly festive period this year, so make sure you take heed of our advice and make memories for the right reasons.
“On behalf of all of us at AF&RS, I’d like to wish you all a very merry Christmas this year!
“If you’re in an emergency and require our Services, no matter what day of the year, call us on 999, we’re always here to help.”