THE TWELVE TIPS FOR FESTIVE FIRE SAFETY

A dramatic public information film to remind people to take extra care during Christmas time has been launched by the Fire Kills campaign, part of the Department for Communities and Local Government.
By The Newsroom
Published 9th Dec 2006, 10:05 BST
Updated 7th Jun 2018, 21:34 BST

The film begins with an idyllic seasonal scene from a row of Christmas cards on a mantelpiece, but we soon realise that within each setting of the card a very real tragedy is taking place. 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.

You are 50% more likely to die in an accidental house fire during the Christmas period than at any other time of the year.

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This festive season East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service is urging people to stay safe and protect their homes from fire by following twelve tips for festive fire safety:

On the 1st day of Christmas - Check your Christmas tree lights conform to the British Standard. Always use an RCD on outdoor electrical equipment (safety device that can save lives by instantly switching off the power).

On the 2nd day of Christmas - Never place candles near your Christmas tree or furnishings. Don't leave them burning unattended.

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

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On the 4th day of Christmas - Decorations can burn easily - Don't attach them to lights or heaters.

On the 5th day of Christmas '“ Switch off electrical appliances when not in use, unless they're designed to stay on. Take special care with Christmas lights. Always switch off and unplug Christmas lights before you go to bed.

On the 6th day of Christmas - Celebrate Christmas and New Year safely. The risk of accidents, especially in the kitchen, is greater after alcohol is consumed.

On the 7th day of Christmas - Most fires start in the kitchen - never leave cooking unattended.

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On the 8th day of Christmas - 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.

On the 9th day of Christmas - Make sure cigarettes are completely extinguished.

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

On the 11th day of Christmas - Keep candles, lighters and matches out of reach of children.

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

Chris Pascoe, Head of Community Safety Department, East Sussex Fire & Rescue said: "Christmas is a time for families and friends and also for having fun. Following our simple fire safety tips will help ensure everyone remains safe and enjoys the season, but don't confine safety to just Christmas. To help you be safe all year round Fire Officers are available to visit you to carry out a home safety check and install smoke alarms completely free of charge. To arrange a home safety visit, call free on 0800 1777069 or visit www.esfrs.org. Further fire safety information can also be found at www.firekills.gov.uk

Copies of the public information film are available at www.coitvfillers.co.uk

Public information films have been promoting health, safety and welfare messages on our screens for 60 years. Currently over 80 TV channels and out of home screens play them. They are broadcast in donated airtime, while other government communications may be paid for.