Home fire safety tips for the festive season

Fire safety tips

• Keep decorations away from heat - they burn easily, so don’t attach them to lights or heaters
• Keep communal areas clear - no clutter or decorations in shared spaces
• Be careful with candles - we advise not using them, but if you do, keep them away from trees, paper, fabric, or plastic
• Never leave candles unattended and keep matches and lighters out of children’s reach
• Don’t overload sockets, and always switch off and unplug Christmas lights before bed or when you go out
• Check wires and plugs and make sure cables aren’t frayed and items have a British or European safety mark
• Don’t charge devices overnight - avoid charging phones or laptops while you sleep or when you’re out
• Take care in the kitchen - most fires start here. Never leave cooking unattended or cook after drinking alcohol.
• Fireworks safety - store them safely, never return to a lit firework, and keep water nearby
• Be careful if you're using electric heaters and keep them away from furniture, curtains, and bedding.
• Check on older relatives and neighbours, they’re at greater risk, so make sure they know these tips.

You can find more home and fire safety tips on our website.