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| Christmas tree full of decorations - picture from Ian Britton at Freefoto.com |
Celebrate safely this Christmas - that's the message from New Forest Community Safety Partnership.
New Forest Community Safety Partnership is working with Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service to raise awareness of the increased risk of domestic fires during the festive season.
Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service respond to an average of four house fires every day during December - more than any other month of the year.
Candles, decorative lights, extra heating, smoking and drinking all add to the dangers of fire safety during the festive season.
Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service has produced the following guidelines for a safe, enjoyable and fire free celebration:
- Always put candles in suitable holders on a firm surface and away from furniture, curtains and decorations
- Never leave burning candles unattended
- Before going to bed or leaving the house, ensure all candles, incense burners and smoking materials are properly extinguished
- Never overload electrical sockets
- Before hanging festive lights ensure they are working correctly
- Check that plugs are fitted with the correct fuses
- Check the
condition of decorative lights. If the insulation is worn
or the wiring damaged, get new lights.
- Never use indoor lights outside even if you think they are safe from the weather
- Fit smoke alarms on each floor of the home and test them regularly
Cllr Goff Beck, portfolio holder for crime and disorder at New Forest District Council, said people should be extra vigilant over Christmas.
"Domestic fires are always tragic, but they seem to affect people much more when they happen at Christmas," he
said. "Fire safety
can be the last thing people think about over the festive season. Knowing
the risks and following this important advice will help ensure
accidents are kept to a minimum and that Christmas will remain
a time for celebration." |
