Kent Fire and Rescue Service have been reminding the public of safety awareness this festive season. National fire statistics show that during December, 20 people a day are either killed or injured due to accidental fires. These stats are proof that safety precautions are more important than ever. The added distractions throughout the Christmas and New Year period can be potentially dangerous for homeowners.
It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year
Between braving a trip to the local shopping centre for gifts and testing our cooking skills with a 6kg turkey, we can easily forget to stay safe. When spending your evening wrapping a mountain of presents and writing out Christmas cards, the importance of fire safety is not often on our minds.
12 tips for Christmas | Kent Fire and Rescue Service
- Test your lights before leaving them unattended
- Turn off decorative lights when leaving the house unoccupied
- Replace bulbs that have blown
- Switch off fairy lights or unplug them during the night
- Never leave burning candles unattended
- Keep tinsel, plastic and paper decorations or cards away from any heat sources
- Keep your real Christmas tree watered. A dry tree will catch fire quickly and burn incredibly quickly.
- Install smoke alarms on each level of your house
- Test your smoke detectors regularly
- Never remove batteries - if it’s not on, it’s not protecting you!
Baby, it’s cold outside
Make sure everyone attending Christmas dinner knows of the fire exits in case of emergency. Keep them clear and open.
Last winter, (December 2013 to February 2014), homes in Kent and Medway experienced around 160 accidental fires. This was more than any other three month period that year. From ornate candles with open flames to twinkling fairy lights, there is undoubtedly an increased risk.
Festive cooking means the use of ovens, steamers and more. Protect your family by installing a smoke detector. These can also be linked to your existing burglar alarm system so that you are alerted when they are activated, even when you are out.
With a monitored alarm and CCTV system, the fire brigade can be alerted immediately if they are required. We understand you may have found yourself waving a tea towel at the alarm last Christmas due to burning potatoes, but alarms are incredibly important within any home.
New Year celebrations
Avoid leaving cooking unattended and put cigarettes out firmly. Think responsibly about alcohol around the Christmas and New Year celebrations. Alcohol can possibly cause a decrease in reaction time in an emergency.
Always carefully read the instructions on any firework packaging. Purchase fireworks responsibly for the location or event they are used for.
By following these simple steps you can enjoy a happy and safe Christmas with family and friends.
Ensure your home is safe this Christmas with Spy Alarms
Our team are ready to take your call and walk you through the various ways in which we can ensure your home is safe this Christmas. For a FREE home survey, please get in touch with us today.
