Don’t let your home go up in flames this Christmas!
Over Christmas and New Year, people spend more time at home, traditionally with a lot more guests and whilst people are relaxing, everyday fire risks can increase.
In light of this, Warwickshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service are asking residents to take extra care as the festivities begin.
Last year there were 47 house fires in Warwickshire over the Christmas period (December 07 to January 08). A number of which were caused by people being distracted, leaving cooking unattended.
But by taking a few simple steps this Christmas, fire risks can be greatly reduced, ensuring that you stay safe over the festive period:
* Check that the smoke alarms in your home are working, check them on a weekly basis and do not be tempted to remove batteries to power any Christmas presents
* Don’t leave candles unattended
* Don’t be distracted when cooking, fire starts when your attention stops
* Make your plan. Get out alive – plan your escape route for the event of fire and ensure all your guests know where the door and window keys are kept
* Don’t leave fairy lights switched on when you go out or to bed
* Check the maximum amps that can be handled by the fuse in the plug
* Don’t let bulbs touch anything that can burn easily like paper or fabrics
* Keep Christmas decorations, cards and wrapping paper away from candles, open fires and heaters
* Make sure smokers put their cigarettes right out
* Take extra care after drinking alcohol
Area Risk Manager, Kevin Gardner said:
“Christmas is a wonderful time of year and we don’t want to see anyone’s Christmas go up in flames. By following a few simple steps, such as turning off tree lights when leaving the house and turning off the cooking if you are called away from the kitchen, you can reduce the chances of having a fire over the festive period.
“In addition, if you haven’t brought that special gift yet, then you could always give them the gift of life and have a smoke alarm installed!“
For more information on Fire Safety log onto http://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/fireandrescue or http://www.firekills.gov.uk