Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service want to make sure families in St Albans and Dacorum have a safe and happy Christmas, free from fire.
Last December twelve families in St Albans and Dacorum and 64 families in Hertfordshire had their Christmases ruined by an accidental fire in their homes. Don’t let your family become another statistic this year.
A fire can be devastating at any time of year, but Christmas can mean that there are extra fire hazards to consider.
Defective fairy lights or candles, and flammable items such as Christmas cards, wrapping paper, crackers, decorations and even the Christmas tree are all potential fire hazards.
Smoke alarms save lives, so make checking the battery in your smoke alarm a priority; it could be responsible for you, your family, and your guests getting out in the event of a fire.
St Albans and Dacorum District Commander Simon Brown, said: “Families all over St Albans and Dacorum will be celebrating in their homes this Christmas and we want to make sure they do so safely. With additional fire hazards and lots of distractions, a fire can start and quickly spread, so we are urging residents to keep fire safety in mind this Christmas.
“We’d also like to remind people to test their smoke alarm, this week and every week. If a friend or family member doesn’t have a smoke alarm, buy them one for Christmas – it could be the most important present you ever give.”
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.