Festive Fire Safety Tips Belfast

Fatalities from fires are 50 per cent higher over the festive season Householders are 50 per cent more likely to die in an accidental fire over the festive season than at any other time, new figures show.

To make Brits aware of the risks of house fires, the government is launching an attention-grabbing new fire safety film today, as well as giving top tips on how to avoid fire accidents.

"It’s a serious reminder that many of the things we enjoy about Christmas, such as the fairy lights, candles, paper hats and decorations, can all be fire hazards when proper care is not taken," the Central Office of Information (COI) said.

"This festive season campaign is urging people to stay safe and protect their homes against fire by following the 'Fire Kills' top twelve tips for festive fire safety."

Top 12 tips to avoid fires over the festive season

1 - Check your Christmas tree lights conform to the British standard and always use an RCD (power cutter) on outdoor electrical equipment. This is a safety device that can save lives by instantly cutting off the electricity supply.

2 - Never place candles near your Christmas tree or furnishings. Do not leave them burning unattended.

3 - Make sure your family and visitors staying for the festive period know what to do in an emergency. Practice a fire escape plan.

4 - Decorations can burn easily so do not attach them to lights or heaters.

5 – Switch off electrical appliances when not in use, unless they are designed to stay on. Take special care with Christmas lights, switching them off and unplugging them before you go to bed.

6 - Celebrate safely. The risk of accidents, especially in the kitchen, is greater after alcohol is consumed.

7 - Most fires start in the kitchen so never leave cooking unattended.

8 - If you are planning to celebrate with fireworks, store them in a metal box, read the instructions. Never go back to a lit firework and keep a bucket of water nearby.

9 - Always make sure cigarettes are completely extinguished.

10 - Check the battery in your smoke alarm every week and use Christmas as a reminder to clean it and remove dust.

11 - Keep candles, lighters and matches out of reach of children.

12 - Take the time to check on elderly relatives and neighbours this Christmas - make sure they too are fire safe.

For more information see www.firekills.gov.uk