Stay safe this Christmas
I know fire is the last thing you want to think about especially around Christmas, with the endless to-do lists and so many presents to buy. We are all rushing around trying to get things ready for the big day!
But taking just 5 minutes to read through our trusted fire experts’ guidance may just save your home from the risks of fire. So, why not grab a cuppa and relax for a few moments.
Expert advice
Don’t become complacent about fire safety, firstly you should ensure have a working smoke alarm fitted on all levels of your property.
Also, be sure to test your smoke alarm(s) every week and make sure to replace the battery or the smoke alarm if it isn’t working.
Our resident Fire Safety expert Tom Stallard MIFSM CFPA.Dip the Head of Fire Services within Ligtas gave this advice.
Christmas is a time when extra fire hazards are in the home, including:
- candles
- portable heaters
- open fires that haven’t been lit for a long time
- Christmas tree lights
- overloaded sockets
Take my advice
Fires can start easily and to reduce the risk of fire over the festive period, so you should never:
- use lights with worn or frayed cables
- leave lights on at night or when you are leaving the house
- place candles near your Christmas tree, decorations, wrapping paper, or furnishings
- put candles in a purpose-made holder and on a heat-resistant surface
- put candles under shelves
- leave burning candles unattended and make sure they are out of reach of children and pets
- attach decorations to lights or heaters overload electrical sockets
- leave a cooker unattended and switch off cooking appliances after use- most fires start in the kitchen
Keep:
- candles, lighters, and matches out of the reach of children
- keep heaters away from soft furnishings and decorations
Check
- check that your Christmas lights conform to the British Standard
- cigarettes are completely stubbed out and never smoke in bed
- you have a working smoke alarm fitted on all levels of your property
If a fire starts, get everyone out of the property and close all doores behind you- phone 999
Escape Plan
Make a fire escape plan and discuss it with your family and keep your escape routes clear. Make sure any visiting family and friends are aware of the fire escape plan and tell them where you keep door keys.
Above all stay safe this Christmas, Tom Stallard MIFSM CFPA.Dip the Head of Fire Services
Extra precautions
For extra reassurance, we would recommend completing the Ligtas accredited Fire Safety Awareness course.
A few hours of your time may one day save your life.
Who is this course for?
This course is aimed at everyone.
Course Overview
The Fire Safety Awareness course will cover fire hazards, prevention, and precautions. Introducing the fire triangle participants will learn about the importance of managing fire risks.
Booking
Booking can be made online via our website, over the telephone at 02922 800 000, or at enquiries@ligtas.co.uk
