Fire Safety in the Home This Christmas

The festive season is a great time of year, but it also brings added fire risks in the home. With lights, candles, extra cooking and decorations, the risk of a house fire increases. This simple Christmas fire safety guide will help you keep your home and family safe.

Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Good fire safety starts with working alarms.

• Install smoke alarms on every floor.
• Fit CO alarms if you have fuel-burning appliances.
• Test alarms weekly and replace batteries or units as needed.

Christmas Lights & Electrical Safety

Festive lights look beautiful, but they’re a common fire hazard.

• Check all cables and plugs for damage.
• Avoid overloading sockets or extension leads.
• Turn off lights before bed or leaving the house.
• Swap older lights for LEDs, which run cooler.
• Keep cables away from heat sources and walkways.

Candles, Fires & Heaters

Candles and decorations can pose a significant fire risk.

• Keep candles away from trees, wrapping paper, and curtains.
• Never leave candles burning unattended.
• Consider using LED flameless candles.
• Keep portable heaters clear of soft furnishings.
• Ensure fireplaces and chimneys are properly maintained.

Christmas Cooking Fire Safety Tips

Cooking-related fires spike during Christmas, so it’s important to be extra careful in the kitchen.

• Never leave pans unattended.
• Keep tea towels, packaging, and decorations away from the cooker.
• Be extra careful if tired or after a drink.
• Clean ovens and hobs regularly to reduce grease fires.

Plan Your Escape

Even with precautions, accidents can happen. Having a clear plan is key for home fire safety.

• Keep hallways and stairs clear.
• Know where keys are kept.
• Agree on a meeting point outside.
• Make sure everyone in the home knows the escape plan.

Stay Safe This Christmas

Christmas is a time for joy and celebration, but it’s important to be mindful of the extra fire risks at this time of year. A few simple checks can make a big difference in keeping your home and family safe.

For more advice on keeping your home safe this festive season, visit the NIFRS website or contact Diamond Systems. Our team is happy to provide expert tips and guidance to help protect your home.