Don’t let fire ruin your Christmas

Fire safety is vital throughout the year, but the extra distractions of the festive season make it especially important to be vigilant. This is why GFRS and Trading Standards are asking people to take extra care to ensure that their families and loved ones are protected from fire.

Chief Fire Officer Mark Preece said: “Christmas can be the time for relaxing, spending time with family and friends and maybe even overindulging. But fairy lights, candles and decorations mean it is also a time to take extra care to keep our loved ones safe from fire.

“To ensure you have the merriest of Christmases, keep fire safety at the top of your list. Ensure you place candles in suitable holders and away from Christmas cards, decorations, or anything else that may catch alight. Never leave cooking unattended and, of course, test your smoke alarms.”

Jason Poole, Head of Trading Standards and Consumer Protection, said: “When buying products, consumers should check that that the product has the correct labelling such as the UKCA mark on products such as toys and electrical goods, which ensure that the product has been tested to comply with safety standards.”

Cllr Dave Norman, cabinet member for the Fire and Rescue Service and Trading Standards, said: “We want families in Gloucestershire to have a wonderful Christmas, but please take extra care to make sure you are protected from the dangers of fire. Please ensure that cigarettes are put fully out, never use heaters to dry clothes and ensure you switch off fairy lights and unplug them before going to bed or leaving the house. Also please make sure when buying any products that they have the correct labelling showing they comply with safety standards.”

Some simple tips for a safe Christmas include:

• Ensure you have working smoke alarms installed on all levels of your home. Working alarms can give you the vital time needed to escape in a fire. Test your smoke alarms regularly and never remove batteries.
• Never leave cooking unattended. The majority of fires start in the kitchen so this is a high-risk area. Many of us enjoy a merry tipple over the festive season but be sure to avoid cooking whilst under the influence of alcohol. Always turn off kitchen appliances when you have finished cooking.
• Never use heaters to dry clothes. Heaters can start fires when things are placed too close to them. Keep them well away from decorations, curtains, clothing and furniture.
• Don’t overload sockets. Ensure only one plug per socket. Always turn off plugs when they are not in use, except those that are designed to be left on, like freezers.
• Always use an RCD (residual current device) on outdoor electrical equipment, including Christmas lights and decorations. This safety device can save lives by instantly switching off the power if there is a fault and can be found in any DIY store.
• Do something good this Christmas. Test the smoke alarms of someone you know who may need help such as an older relative or neighbour to ensure their safety as they are at greater risk from fire.
• Make sure that everyone in your home knows what to do in a fire – in the event of fire you should get out, stay out and call 999.
• Please only buy e-bikes, e-scooters and chargers and batteries from reputable retailers and register your product with the manufacturer to validate any warranties. Registering makes it easier for manufacturers to contact you in the event of safety or recall information.

For advice specific to you and your home visit www.ohfsc.co.uk to complete your own home fire safety check. Further support and advice is available here: Your safety