Be safe at Christmas

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service is urging people to take extra care with candles during the festive period.

Candles are popular at this time of year or other special occasions but need to be treated carefully to avoid fire.

They should be fully extinguished before leaving the house or going to sleep and should never be left unattended. Candles should always be extinguished before they burn into their holder and need to be put out before they are moved. Risk of fire or injury is much higher if a burning candle is moved while it is lit.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Always place candles away from curtains, furniture and drapes and always out of draughts. They should be kept out of reach of children and pets, on a heat resistant surface. Night-lights and tea lights can melt plastic surfaces such as the top of a television or the side of a bathtub.

Gas and paraffin lamps can be very dangerous too. It is important they are working properly and used only in well-ventilated areas. To create more subdued lighting use lower wattage bulbs, do not be tempted to cover lights with fabric. Curtains and other fabrics can burn easily so it is important to make sure that lights, bulbs and candles are not placed too near to them.

Smoke alarms can save lives, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service can offer free smoke alarms and essential fire safety advice for you and your family this Christmas. For more information please contact the Community Safety Team on 0800 1777069.