This Christmas will be like no other. We’re going to be spending a lot more time at home, so make sure your place is safe with these nine tips from our safety team:
- There’s an increased risk of fire in the home at Christmas time, so check your smoke alarms are working. It’s a good idea to test your smoke alarms weekly. Working smoke alarms save lives.
- If you do have anyone staying for the festive period, do they know what to do in an emergency? Tell them your escape plan.
- Check that your escape route is clear of anything that someone could trip over in an emergency. Make sure your door and any window keys are in the right place.
- Before you go to bed, remember to switch off and unplug electrical items - including all those extra Christmas lights – and close your doors.
- Check that your Christmas tree lights are all working and aren’t damaged. Never overload electrical sockets.
- Never put candles in, or by a Christmas tree. Put out any candles before you leave a room and before you go to bed. Keep matches, lighters and candles where children can’t see or reach them.
- Take care to keep ribbons, decorations made of tissue paper or cardboard, and greetings cards away from heaters, lights, fireplaces and candles.
- Did you know 60% of all fires start in the kitchen? Don’t get distracted while cooking - take pans off the heat or turn the heat down if you’re called away from the cooker.
- If you’re planning to use fireworks, read the instructions and follow the firework code.
Most importantly, enjoy this very unusual Christmas and stay safe!