Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service Newsdesk

at 15/12/2011 10:26

To help residents avoid an unwelcome visit from firefighters this Christmas, Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service (CFRS) is sharing its top tips for staying safe from fire.

With overheated sockets, faulty fairy lights and flammable decorations a recipe for disaster, firefighters want to give the gift of peace of mind this festive season by encouraging residents to take a few simple precautions.

Last December, one person died and a total of five people were injured in the 33 house fires attended by crews, said Crew Manager Mark Pratten from Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service’s Prevention Team.

He added: “The hustle and bustle of Christmas preparations can often push fire safety out of our minds. But in reality, the festive season can bring a number of fire risks into our homes.

“Christmas is a time for celebrating with family and friends and we want to keep it that way. By being aware of the risks and making a few simple checks you and your loved ones will be able to celebrate in safety.”

Top tips from Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service include:

Make sure you have a working smoke alarm on every level of your home. Check them weekly and don’t take the batteries out! Smoke alarms will detect traces of smoke before you do, giving you precious time to escape to safety.

Never leave cooking unattended. The majority of house fires start in the kitchen, often the result of food catching on fire after being left for too long on the hob or under the grill. And don’t forget to turn off kitchen appliances when you have finished cooking.

Avoid cooking if you are or have been drinking, are tired or taking medication which can make you drowsy. It’s all too easy to fall asleep while waiting for food to cook.

Unplug fairy lights before going out or going to bed. Make sure your Christmas tree lights conform to the British Standard (BS EN 60598). And don’t overload sockets!

Keep lit candles away from decorations, cards and presents, and always use a suitable container. Tealights and nightlights will melt their foil containers and scented candles turn to liquid as they release the fragrance.

Setting up decorations outside? Use an RCD (residual current device) for outdoor electrical equipment. Found in DIY stores, the device shuts off power in the event of a fault.

And if you come across a fire in your home – shut the door on the fire (if it is safe to do so) and get out, stay out and call 999.

Lance Kennedy, Cornwall Council cabinet member for Community Safety and Public Prevention, added: "Christmas comes but once a year, fire is always there. Please make sure you keep it safely wrapped and enjoy your Christmas."

For more advice on staying safe from fire visit www.cornwall.gov.uk/fire or call Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service’s free 24 hour fire safety helpline on 0800 3581 999.

Related item: http://www.cornwall.gov.uk/default.aspx?page=7283