Christmas Fire Safety |
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Christmas, as well as being a joyous occasion, can also be a time of tragedy. The chance of fire occurring in our homes is increased by introducing such items as paper decorations, Christmas trees, temporary lighting and large amounts of wrapping paper and boxes, etc. The chance of a fire occurring is often further increased by larger than normal numbers of people in the home, and the inevitable consumption of alcohol. Fire does not respect Christmas and it is a certainty that a family somewhere in Britain, if not Warwickshire itself, will have a serious fire over the festive season.
These few simple precautions can dramatically reduce the risk of fire, particularly during the Christmas period. | | |
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- Always turn Christmas tree lights off and remove the plug at night, and when the room is going to be unoccupied for a length of time.
- Ensure Christmas lights carry the British Safety Standard mark.
- Do not overload plug sockets.
- Ensure candles are in proper holders so they can't fall over, and do not leave lit candles unattended for any length of time.
- Make sure open fires are well guarded and that wrapping paper, Christmas decorations etc., are kept well away.
- Make sure smokers extinguish their cigarettes completely.
- Take extra care after drinking alcohol.
- Push the button, not your luck - Check your smoke alarms are working and don't be tempted to use the batteries to power any Christmas presents.
- Make your plan. Get out alive - will everyone (including guests) know where your door and window keys are kept?
- Don't be distracted when cooking - fire starts when your attention stops.
Chief Fire Officer, Graeme Smith says: "Christmas is a great time of year and obviously we don't want to put a dampener on people enjoying themselves, but having served in the Fire Service for many years I have witnessed first hand the devastation that fire can cause. It's always so frustrating when a few simple precautions could have prevented tragedies that should never have happened."
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For further Fire Safety information and advice contact:
The Fire Safety Helpline on 01926 466282
National Community Fire Safety Centre Website www.firekills.gov.uk
Download "Wishing You a Safe and Happy Christmas" leaflet
Download "Fire Safety When Celebrating" leaflet
Download "Fire Safety in Winter" leaflet
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