Christmas is a time for having fun - however it’s also a time when extra fire hazards are introduced into the home such as fairy lights, candles and decorations. To make your home and workplace as free from the risk of fire as possible, it is best to ensure the following guidelines are met:

1. Choose British Standard fairy lights.
2. Check that your Christmas lights are in good working condition before they are used, replacing blown bulbs as necessary.
3. Keep candles away from decorations and other combustible materials.
4. Never leave a burning candle unattended or use candles to decorate your Christmas tree.
5. Turn your Christmas lights off when you go to bed or go out.
6. Make certain that the Christmas light bulbs do not touch anything that burns easily such as paper, fabric or card.
7. Check the battery on your smoke alarm and if the battery needs replacing – replace it straight away.
8. Never leave cooking unattended – most fires start in the kitchen.
9. Fire risk assessments are not just for the workplace; they can be an extremely helpful guide in indentifying any potential fire hazards at home. Ensure all family members and guests are aware of your emergency evacuation plan.
10. Make sure cigarettes are completely extinguished at all times.
11. If you are using a real Christmas tree keep it well watered to stop it from drying out - shorts in electrical lights start tree fires.
12. Do you have a fire extinguisher at home? If you do, check that it is in perfect working order and replace if necessary.

Have a happy and safe Christmas!