After attending more than 180 fires in December 2022, Avon Fire & Rescue Service has offered advice to help residents stay safe over the Christmas period.

Photo © Avon Fire & Rescue Service
Whether you’re putting up a real Christmas tree, have lit an advent candle or are busy cooking ready for the big day, it’s important to understand the risks that Christmas presents and how to enjoy yourself safely.
Temporary Area Manager Steve Quinton said: “We want you to have a brilliant Christmas with your loved ones and staying safe doesn’t have to spoil your fun.
“Just a few things like making sure to water your real Christmas tree, keeping candles in safe places and testing those smoke alarms can greatly reduce your risk of an accident.”
Top tips from the fire service include:
- If you’ve got a real Christmas tree, be sure to water it regularly as dry trees are extremely flammable.
- Opt for LED candles where possible. If using real candles, make sure they are in proper holders and burn them well out of reach of children, pets and flammable materials like tinsel. Extinguish your candles fully before going out or going to bed.
- Test your smoke alarms weekly, particularly before you cook your Christmas dinner. Keep your eyes on your cooking and don’t go out whilst things are cooking.
Steve added: “At AF&RS, we’d like to give you a gift this Christmas. We invite you to use our free home fire safety checker. It takes just 15 minutes and will give you personalised advice to help keep you and your loved ones safe from fire at home. “
You can access the home safety tool here.