Something short from the fire service, but it’s a real issue which people should watch out for.

Help to keep your family and Christmas presents safe from fire by following a few simple guidelines:

– Never place candles near your Christmas tree or materials that can catch light easily.
– Check your Christmas tree lights are in good condition and carry the British Safety Standard sign.
– Test the batteries in your smoke alarm every week. Never remove them.
– Make sure cigarettes are put out properly and make sure visitors to your home know where to dispose of any butts.
– Make sure your family and visitors know how to escape in an emergency.
– Most fires start in the kitchen. Avoid leaving a cooker unattended.
– Never overload electrical sockets. Always switch Christmas lights off and unplug them before you go to bed or when leaving the house unattended.
– Keep candles, lighters and matches out of children’s reach. Never leave burning candles unattended.
– Decorations can burn easily – so don’t attach them to lights or heaters.
– If you have a real Christmas tree; keep it watered and away from heat sources which can dry it out. A dried out tree is a serious fire hazard and you should get rid of it.
– Take time to check on elderly relatives and neighbours this Christmas.
– Don’t burn the turkey/Christmas dinner.
– Be careful when lighting the Christmas pudding.

Ok, we added the last two, but you get the idea!