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Christmas is the season for joy, warmth and spending time with loved ones. But it’s also a time when fire and smoke damage becomes more common.
Although we have seen a decrease in fire-related incidents in 2024, according to the UK Fire and Rescue Service, preventable fires are more likely during the holidays due to things like decorations, candles, cooking mishaps and overloaded electrics.
To help keep you and your home safe this seson, here’s our festive fire safety home checklist from Action Insurance Repair:
1. Never Leave Candles Unattended
Candles add that cosy, festive feel to your home, but they can also be a fire hazard. Always place candles on stable, heat-resistant surfaces away from anything flammable like curtains or decorations. And never leave a room with a candle burning – or leave it on for more than two hours.
Top Tip: LED flameless candles are a safe alternative and still create that warm, festive atmosphere.
2. Book a Chimney Sweep
If you’re lighting a real fire, make sure your chimney is clear of soot and debris. A build-up of creosote can cause dangerous chimney fires. Get a professional chimney sweep to clean it before you light up.
Did You Know? Chimneys should be swept at least once a year if you use them regularly.
3. Test Your Smoke Alarms Weekly
Smoke alarms save lives, so take a minute each week to test them. It’s quick and could make all the difference. If they’re battery-operated, make sure the batteries are fresh.
How many fire alarms do I need? You should have at least one smoke alarm per floor in your home.
4. Use Safety-Certified Christmas Lights
When decorating your home, make sure your lights have the British Safety Standard (BS EN 60598) mark. LED lights are the safest choice since they stay cool and reduce fire risks. Avoid buying cheap, untested lights from online bargains or market stalls.
Important: Always turn off your Christmas lights before bed or when you leave the house.
5. Keep Decorations Away from Fires and Heat Sources
Festive decorations like tinsel and wrapping paper can easily catch fire. Keep them away from candles, fireplaces, heaters and radiators to prevent accidents.
Safety Reminder: Never place decorations near light bulbs or electrical appliances.
6. Place Your Tree Carefully
Make sure your Christmas tree doesn’t block any exits or windows. In case of a fire, clear escape routes are essential. If you have a real tree, water it every day to keep it fresh and reduce the fire risk.
Fire Fact: A dry tree can catch fire faster than paper!
7. Don’t Overload Plug Sockets
With all the Christmas lights, gadgets, and chargers, it’s tempting to overload plug sockets. But too many plugs in one socket can overheat and cause electrical fires. Stick to one plug per socket when you can.
Top Tip: If you need extra plugs, use surge-protected extension leads for added safety.
8. Stay Safe in the Kitchen
Cooking is a big part of Christmas, but it’s also a common cause of house fires. Don’t leave food unattended on the hob or in the oven and avoid getting distracted while cooking.
Important Reminder: Whilst it might be easier said than done, avoid cooking under the influence of alcohol!
If the Worst Happens…
In the event of a fire, your safety is the most important thing. Get everyone out of the house, call 999, and wait for the fire service to arrive. Firefighters are available 24/7, even on Christmas Day.
For more fire safety tips this festive season, visit the Fire Kills website.
House fires can feel overwhelming. If you’ve been impacted, click here to explore detailed guidance on the actions you can take to begin the fire damage repairs process.
From all of us at AIR, we wish you a merry, bright and fire-safe Christmas!