11/12/2008 - Festive fire warning : Cumbria County Council

With fully decorated Christmas trees now standing proud in living rooms across the county, Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service is warning people to take extra care to prevent accidental fires.

Figures show that people are 50 per cent more likely to die in an accidental house fire at Christmas than any other time of the year.

One part of Christmas safety that could be forgotten about is the safety of real trees. It takes just 49 seconds for a dry tree to completely involve the room in fire, and Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service is urging people with real trees to ensure that they keep the tree in a suitable stand that can be kept topped up with water.

People who rent their home could also be at more risk than owner-occupiers because of uncertainty about who should check that the property is safe - landlords as well as people renting should carry out regular checks.

So with winter on its way and the nights drawing in, Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service have issued a timely warning to residents to stay warm but safe as the colder weather takes hold.

Lesley Graham, Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service’s Community Safety Manager said, “As it gets colder and darker it’s inevitable that we all spend more time indoors staying as cosy as possible. People might take additional measures to keep warm such as heaters and candles but these may bring an increased risk of fire into the home. By following some simple rules everyone can ensure they stay safe and warm.

"We are here to help and offer advice. If you are in any doubt over any fire safety issues, please do get in touch. We all want to be warm in winter, but we must avoid tragedy.

“Most importantly remember to test your smoke alarm every week. Working smoke alarms save lives.”

To help people reduce their fire risk this winter they should be aware of all the potential dangers in their home. Open fires may provide a relaxing and atmospheric way to keep warm, and while portable heaters can be easily moved it’s still important to use them safely by always using a fire guard to protect against flying sparks and hot embers. Also make sure embers are properly put out before you go out or go to bed.

Portable heaters should be kept away from curtains and furniture and never use them for drying clothes. Always unplug electric heaters when you go out and go to bed.

Electric blankets can help you keep warm during the cold nights, but fires can be devastating with 440 injuries resulting from every 1000 fires started by an electric blanket. Here are some fire safety issues to consider: never use hot water bottles in the same bed as an electric blanket, even if the blanket is switched off; unplug blankets before you get into bed, unless they have a thermostat control for safe all-night use; and don’t leave electric blankets folded as this damages the internal wiring. Store them flat or rolled up instead.

Candles can also be used to light up the dark evenings but as with open fires, a naked flame brings risks if they are not treated with respect. Candles should be secured in a proper holder, and away from materials that may catch fire such as curtains. It is also very important to put out candles completely before you leave the room or go to bed.

Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service’s top Christmas tips for festive fire safety are:

- Check your Christmas tree lights conform to the British Standard. Always use an RCD on outdoor electrical equipment - a safety device that can save lives by instantly switching off the power

- Never place candles near your Christmas tree or furnishings. Don't leave them burning

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

- Decorations can burn easily - Don't attach them to lights or heaters

- 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

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

- Most fires start in the kitchen - never leave cooking unattended

- 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

-Make sure cigarettes are completely extinguished

- Check the battery in your smoke alarm every week and use Christmas as a reminder to clean it and remove dust

- Keep candles, lighters and matches out of reach of children

- Take the time to check on elderly relatives and neighbours this Christmas - make sure they are fire safe

Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service operates a freephone number - 0800 358 4777 - which people can call to arrange a free Home Safety Check and receive other useful safety information. Landlords who would like a check of their properties can also call this number.

A video clip highlighting the real hazard a dehydrated tree presents is available from Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service, or the first link below, with other information direct from government available at the second link.